Coughs can be caused by many different things. While sometimes a cough occurs because the throat is irritated due to smoke or other fragrance in the air, a cough can also occur because an illness has set in, such as the cold or flu.

But when should you seek medical attention for a cough? Our team at AFC Urgent Care TN wants to offer some insight.

What Is a Cough?

A cough, which is also known as “tussis,” occurs when the throat and breathing passages become irritated.

While a person can cough deliberately, it can also come along as a reflux, due to something like a tickle in the throat or a foreign particle in the throat.

Causes of a Cough

• Acute sinusitis
• Allergic rhinitis
• Chronic bronchitis
• Cold
• COPD
• Flu
• Pertussis (whooping cough)
• Non-allergic rhinitis
• Smoking

Should I See a Physician?

While some coughs disappear as fast as they appear, there are times when a cough might need further medical attention.

If your cough has stuck around for a while or seems to be worsening, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor. It’s also a good idea to seek medical attention if you experience other symptoms along with your cough, like a fever or sore throat.

Treatment for a Cough

• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink fluids, especially water.
• Try OTC medications to alleviate discomfort.
• Drink warm beverages to soothe the throat.

Is your cough lingering with no end in sight? Then it’s time to make a stop by one of our AFC Urgent Care TN centers for a medical evaluation to ensure your cough is nothing more than a cough.