Cough
Most coughs clear up on their own within 3 to 4 weeks. They are often caused by a cold or flu, although smoking, acid reflux, allergies and other infections can also cause a cough.
What you can do
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
- Try a warm lemon and honey drink if suitable. Do not give honey to babies under 1 year old, and do not give hot drinks to young children.
- Avoid smoking, smoke and other irritants.
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen may help with pain or fever if they are suitable for you; follow the label and ask a pharmacist if unsure.
How a pharmacist can help
A pharmacist can discuss your symptoms and suggest suitable cough medicines, cough sweets or other self-care. These may help you cough less, but they will not usually stop a cough completely. Ask before giving cough medicines to a child.
When to seek medical help
Contact NHS 111 or ask for an urgent GP appointment if your cough is very bad or quickly gets worse, you feel very unwell, you have chest pain, find it hard to breathe, cough up blood, or have painful swelling on the side of your neck.
See a GP if you have had a cough for more than 3 weeks, are losing weight without trying, or have a weakened immune system. Call 999 if you have severe difficulty breathing or another life-threatening emergency.
Official source: NHS cough guidance
For general health information only. This does not replace individual diagnosis or treatment advice.
Ways Pharmacy is in Holborn. Visit us if you would like to speak to a pharmacist about a cough or suitable self-care.
