Long COVID: Cough

Coughing is the body’s way of protecting the lungs and getting rid of things that irritate them. This is a normal and important function.

Types of cough

Some infections can leave you with a dry cough because your lungs have been irritated. This should slowly disappear during the course of your recovery. It's not clear how long after coronavirus (COVID-19) you may have a cough and it can be frustrating at times.

A dry cough is one of the most common coronavirus symptoms, but some people may have a cough with phlegm (thick mucus).

It can be difficult to control your cough but there are a few ways to help.

Ways to help a dry cough

Do

keep yourself well hydrated by drinking small amounts often throughout the day
soothe your throat by drinking a warm drink, such as honey and lemon
take small sips of liquid if you feel yourself starting to cough
suck a sugary sweet if you feel yourself starting to cough
try swallowing repeatedly if you have a cough and don't have a drink near you
blow your nose if you have a runny nose – try not to sniff

You can also use positions to ease breathing if you cough when you go to bed.

Avoid things that make you cough, for example:

smoking
smoky atmospheres
air fresheners
strong smelling candles
strong perfumes or deodorants

Ways to help a cough with phlegm

Do

stay hydrated
inhale steam
try lying on either side as flat as you can to help drain the phlegm
try moving around to help to move the phlegm
try breathing control techniques if you move to an area with a different temperature
try to breathe in through your nose – breathing in through your mouth can make you cough more