Why Do I Have a Lingering Cough After the Flu?
During the flu, your respiratory system gets extremely sensitive and irritated, leaving it in a vulnerable state. This inflammation is what causes the constant coughing and dryness in the throat. Not to mention, given its sensitivity, the more you cough, the more inflamed the throat gets.
Thus, once the infection clears up, the tissues lining your throat need time to repair and get back to business, which is why the coughing spell lingers for a few more weeks. Moreover, since you have to keep using your throat in everyday conversations, the healing process keeps getting interrupted.
Alternatively, a lingering cough could also be a result of excessive mucus production. This is because when you have the flu, your body automatically produces a lot of mucus to keep your nasal passageway lubricated. However, the excess mucus can drip down the back of your throat, causing irritation and triggering a cough reflex.
How Long Can A Cough Linger After The Flu?
It depends. A cough can linger after the flu for several weeks, usually going on for two to three weeks. However, the total time depends on your overall health and immune system, as well as the severity of the flu. Moreover, a post-flu coughing spell is often a result of a respiratory infection. The only way to beat that is by staying hydrated, taking over-the-counter medications, and maintaining doctor’s orders.
How to Treat a Lingering Cough
If you’re struggling with a cough that refuses to go away after the flu, try following the tips mentioned below to soothe the ache.
- Keep Your Throat Well-Hydrated
Staying hydrated is by far one of the simplest ways to ease cough spells. Whether it’s water or warm drinks, fluids tend to instantly soothe throat irritation. - Take Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter cough medications, such as decongestants, painkillers, and cough suppressants, help control the urge to cough. They also loosen the mucus, which breaks down the icky feeling in your throat. - Get a Flu Shot
The best way to avoid the flu is by getting a flu shot. Not only does this prevent respiratory infections, but it also reduces the severity of flu symptoms.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
To put it briefly, even though a lingering cough after the flu is annoying, as long as you understand the reason behind it and take preventive measures, it can go away faster. Simply incorporate a lot of fluids into your diet, get a flu shot, and consult your doctor for more health-related tips. For more information, reach out to Bharmal Internal Medicine at (817) 784-0052.