You are not alone if you have recently recovered from a cold or flu and are still battling a persistent cough. A post-infectious cough is a common issue many people face after an upper respiratory infection, and while it can be frustrating, it’s usually not a cause for concern. Dr Jayakumar Rajagopal, Senior Consultant and Associate Professor, Respiratory Medicine, PSG Hospitals explains in this article what you need to know about this lingering symptom and how to manage it.
What is a Post-Infectious Cough?
A post-infectious cough is a cough that occurs after an upper respiratory infection—like a cold, flu, or bronchitis—has resolved. While the infection itself may be gone, the cough can persist for weeks or even months. This is due to ongoing irritation and inflammation in the airways that were affected during the infection, Dr Jayakumar Rajagopal defined.
Why does it happen?
Rajagopal explained that “After a respiratory infection, your airways can remain inflamed, causing them to become more sensitive. Even though the virus or bacteria has been cleared from your body, the airways may still overreact to minor irritants, leading to a cough. Additionally, mucus from the infection can continue to drip down your throat, causing further irritation and triggering the cough reflex.”
How long does it last?
The cough usually lasts anywhere from a few weeks to up to 8 weeks after the initial infection. Most people find that it gradually improves over time, but some may experience intermittent coughing spells, especially in the morning or at night, the doctor adds.
Symptoms to look for:
A Dry or Wet Cough: The cough can be dry (without mucus) or wet (with mucus), depending on the severity of airway irritation.
Throat Irritation: A tickling or scratchy sensation in the throat often accompanies the cough.
Post-Nasal Drip: Mucus may drip down the back of your throat, which can worsen the cough.
No Other Infection Symptoms: After the infection has passed, you should no longer have fever, body aches, or other cold symptoms.
How to Manage a Post-Infectious Cough
While a post-infectious cough often resolves on its own, there are ways to make yourself more comfortable during the recovery process:
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep the throat moist and reduces irritation. Warm teas with honey or broths are particularly soothing.
Use a Humidifier: Dry air can make a cough worse, so using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and ease throat discomfort.
Over-the-Counter Medications: Cough suppressants or expectorants can help manage the symptoms. Cough drops and throat lozenges can also soothe an irritated throat.
Avoid Irritants: Smoke, strong perfumes, and other airborne irritants can make your cough worse, so it’s best to avoid them.
Rest: Giving your body time to recover from the infection will help your immune system heal any lingering inflammation.
When to See a doctor
While a post-infectious cough is usually harmless, it’s important to consult a doctor if:
The cough persists for more than 8 weeks.
You notice blood in your sputum (coughing up blood).
You experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or wheezing.
The cough is accompanied by a high fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss.
These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires medical attention.
Final Thoughts
A post-infectious cough can be a bothersome but common aftermath of an upper respiratory infection. While it can linger for several weeks, it generally improves on its own with simple home remedies and over-the-counter treatments.
If symptoms worsen or persist, however, it’s always best to seek medical advice to rule out other potential causes. With patience and proper care, you’ll soon be breathing easier again, Dr Jayakumar Rajagopal concluded.
