Health & wellbeing

Great advice to keep you happy and health

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Q. I've had a persistent cough for three weeks (not COVID), which is worse at night. Can you suggest anything to help?

 

Niamh McMillan, Superdrug Pharmacy Superintendent, is here to help.

A cough will usually clear by itself within three to four weeks. Coughs can normally be treated at home without the need to see a GP.

Make sure you get lots of rest, drink plenty of fluids or take a suitable medicine. Your local pharmacist can discuss your symptoms with you and recommend the most appropriate cough sweets, medicine or self-care at home. Your pharmacist should be able to recognise if a GP visit is warranted.

The vast majority of coughs are caused by a cold or flu, but other causes include heartburn, allergies including hayfever, smoking and infections. The NHS recommends that if you've had a persistent cough for more than three weeks then you should see your GP.

Other signs that you should see your doctor include chest pain, unexplained weight loss, swollen glands, difficulty in breathing or coughing up blood.

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