A cough is a natural defensive reflex of the organism developed as a result of irritation of receptors located in the respiratory tract, the ear or the brain.
If the cough accompanies a normal infection, both home remedies or over the counter medications from a pharmacy should deal with the problem.
On the other hand, when you suffer from a persistent cough for more than 8 weeks, it is extremely important what you are going to do next because chronic cough is usually a symptom of something else other than a classic, common cold in autumn.
Chronic cough may signify:
an inflammation of the upper respiratory tract (mucous membrane of the nose and sinuses),
a bronchial asthma,
a reflux disease (gastroesophageal reflux),
other pulmonary diseases such as: mucoviscidosis, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), tuberculosis, interstitial pneumonia,
heart diseases,
a neoplastic disease,
the presence of a foreign body in the respiratory tract.
Chronic, convulsive, tiring cough may also be caused by environmental pollution and smoking, including passive smoking.
This information is provided for your reference only and it is not to be relied upon on its own as instructions for use of this medication. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Other than liability for death or personal injury arising out of our negligence, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise.
