Cough

A cough is a common symptom of many upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold, the flu, and COVID-19. Most coughs improve with rest and at-home care, but if your symptoms persist, don’t wait for professional care. At Humble Simple Care, a virtual primary care practice serving people throughout Kentucky and Virginia, Nicole Isaac, MSN, FNP-C, regularly treats diagnoses with cough. If you or your child have a cough, make a telemedicine appointment today by calling or clicking the online booking feature. 

What is a cough?

A cough is a natural, bodily reflex that pushes air through your lungs, throat, and mouth. It’s a common symptom of upper-respiratory infections and can help clear mucus, germs, and other irritants from your airways. 

Everyone coughs occasionally, but if your cough becomes persistent and doesn’t improve with rest and at-home care, don’t wait to seek professional treatment.

What are some common causes of a cough?

You can develop a cough for various reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

• Acid reflux
• Allergens
• Asthma
• Upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold, the flu, and COVID-19
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Postnasal drip

Sometimes, a cough occurs due to external factors, such as exposure to smoke, pollution, or dust.

How is a cough diagnosed via telemedicine?

Nicole reviews your health history and asks about your cough, including when it started, whether it occurs alongside other symptoms, and if certain activities, such as going outside, worsen it. She also listens to your cough to determine whether it’s dry or wet.

Next, Nicole completes a virtual exam. She may ask you to open your mouth and say “ah,” so she can look at your throat for signs of irritation, inflammation, or postnasal drip. Most coughs can be evaluated online, but Nicole might refer you to a nearby medical facility for additional testing if she suspects you have an infection.

How is a cough treated?

Treatment for a cough depends on the underlying cause and its severity. Many people benefit from a combination of rest, at-home treatment, and prescription medication. Depending on your needs, Nicole may suggest:

• Cough drops, throat lozenges, or a throat spray
• Cough suppressants, such as dextromethorphan
• Decongestants, if you also have a stuffy nose or postnasal drip
• Expectorants, to help thin mucus
• Honey, to coat your throat and calm your cough
• Prescription antibiotics if you have a bacterial infection
• Antihistamines if you have allergies
• An inhaler for asthma or COPD management
• Oral steroids
• Medication for acid reflux if that’s causing your cough

At first, it may take some trial and error to determine the best approach. Nicole can monitor your cough at follow-up appointments and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

To receive treatment for a persistent cough, make a telemedicine appointment at Humble Simple Care by clicking the online booking feature.