Coughing is the body's natural response to removing foreign objects, such as germs, viruses, dust, or irritating substances, from the respiratory tract. Even so, coughing also often indicates the presence of certain health problems, ranging from ARI, allergies, asthma, to lung cancer.
The throat and lungs normally produce little mucus or phlegm. This mucus is usually expelled through coughing and sneezing. Coughing that occurs occasionally and quickly subsides is generally still relatively normal, because it helps move phlegm which functions to keep the respiratory tract moist.
However, a cough that lasts for several weeks or even months should be watched out for because it could be a symptom of an illness that needs to be treated.
Handling for coughs needs to be done immediately, especially if the cough is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, shortness of breath, and phlegm that is greenish yellow or mixed with blood.
Please note that coughing can also be one of the symptoms of COVID-19. If you or your child has a cough, especially if accompanied by fever, headache, or loss of smell, immediately check with your doctor to confirm these conditions.
so you can be directed to the nearest COVID-19 test:
Antibody Rapid Test
Antigen Swab (Rapid Test Antigen)
PCR
Cough Symptoms and Causes
Coughs are generally accompanied by other symptoms, such as a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, wheezing, shortness of breath, and heartburn. Based on the duration of occurrence, cough can last less than 3 weeks to more than 8 weeks.
Coughs can be caused by infections in the upper respiratory tract or lower respiratory tract. Coughs can also result from allergies or long-term illnesses, such as asthma, COPD, and chronic bronchitis.
Cough Treatment and Prevention
Apart from taking cough medicine, there are independent efforts that can be made to relieve coughing. Some of these ways are by getting enough rest, drinking lots of water, and consuming honey.
If the cough is caused by a bacterial infection, then consult a doctor regarding the use of antibiotics. Also consult a doctor if coughing is suspected due to stomach acid or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
The way to prevent coughing is to stop smoking, wash your hands frequently, not make contact with people who are sick, use a mask when you are sick, and eat a complete and balanced nutritious diet.
In addition, getting flu and pneumonia vaccinations can prevent respiratory infections that can cause coughing.
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