A post-infectious cough is a persistent cough that occurs following a respiratory infection, such as a cold, flu, or bronchitis. While the original infection has resolved, the cough may last for weeks or even months, creating discomfort and stress.
Causes
Post-infectious coughs are often caused by inflammation or irritation in the airways that persists after the virus has cleared. When a virus or bacteria infects the respiratory system, it can leave behind sensitive airways, resulting in a persistent cough. This sort of cough is often nonproductive (dry), but it may be accompanied by a little amount of mucus. It may worsen with physical activity, speech, or exposure to irritants such as cold air, smoke, or strong odours.
Symptoms
A post-infectious cough is characterised by a persistent, bothersome cough that persists even after other symptoms of the illness (e.g., fever, congestion, sore throat) have subsided. Dry or marginally productive, it frequently gets worse at night or in the early morning. Although it is usually not harmful, it can cause discomfort, irritability in the throat, and sleep disruptions that interfere with day-to-day activities.
Treatment
The goal of treating a post-infectious cough is to relieve the inflamed respiratory tract. This can involve treating the cough with honey, throat lozenges, or cough suppressants. Other helpful practices include utilising humidifiers, avoiding allergens, and staying hydrated. When a cough is caused by inflammation of the airways, doctors may recommend bronchodilators or inhaled corticosteroids.
To rule out more serious illnesses, it is imperative to seek medical care if a cough persists longer than anticipated.