Overview
- CDC reports U.S. flu activity is climbing again after a brief dip, extending the respiratory illness season into spring.
- Clinicians advise an office visit if a cough lasts more than about a week or worsens, especially with fever or breathing trouble.
- Seek urgent or emergency care for coughing up blood, significant shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent high fevers or unexplained weight loss.
- Doctors classify coughs as acute (under 3 weeks), subacute (up to 8 weeks) and chronic (over 8 weeks), and persistent cases often arise from asthma, reflux or chronic sinus disease.
- First-line relief includes dextromethorphan for dry coughs, guaifenesin to thin mucus, honey for those over 1 year, plus rest, fluids and humidified air, though benefits vary and evidence in children is limited.