How to get rid of a long cough: Doctor Cyril Mucha advises

Since testing is no longer mandatory, it is possible that many patients will get sick with covid and then immediately get the flu or another similar infection.

Inflammation and weak immunity

“A long-lasting cough persists, for example, after inflammation of the upper and middle respiratory tracts, which damages and scars the mucous membranes,” explains general practitioner Cyril Mucha and continues: “Think of your mucous membranes as a bottle and the inflammation as a brush to clean the neck of the bottle. And the scarred mucous membranes damaged in this way are irritating to cough and need time to heal.’

Another reason, according to Dr. Mucha, is that people in general have weaker immunity and have a harder time dealing with diseases. “In the time of covid, we protected ourselves with masks and got infected very little. And that has weakened our immunity, so we fight infections longer than usual.”

Inhalation, rest, gargling

In order for the cough to calm down and shorten the time, it is necessary to protect the airways. “I recommend inhalations and gargling with St. John’s wort or sage. At home, keep the temperature lower and humidify the air, for example with wet sheets. The dry air irritates the cough,” recommended by MUDr. A fly.

Mucosal syndrome

Another reason for persistent problems, especially a bothersome cough, is the so-called sinobronchial (mucosal) syndrome. “This means that there is simultaneous inflammation in the bronchi and in the secondary nasal cavities. It can happen, for example, by mucus from the nose running into the respiratory tract,” states the doctor.

In addition to frequent expectoration and coughing, the patient also suffers from headaches, stuffy nose and chest pain. “This diagnosis is determined by the doctor. He will probably prescribe antibiotic drops for the nose, and the patients will help themselves by rinsing their sinuses with a special kettle.” recommended by general practitioner Cyril Mucha.

Asthmatics beware

People with COPD and asthma are especially at risk of infections and long coughs. “They are the ones we recommend vaccination against flu and pneumococci,” is presented by doc. Milan Sova, head of the pulmonary department of the FN Brno and adds: “If you’ve been coughing for a month and have a temperature and are weak, I’d suggest getting your lungs checked.” You should also consult a doctor if you cough up colored mucus or suffer from shortness of breath. It is necessary to rule out other diseases such as asthma, COPD or lung cancer.

You know that…

… giving antibiotics for viral infections won’t help? Most upper respiratory tract infections are caused by viruses. And antibiotics only work on bacterial infections.