Cough
A cough is the body's way of clearing the airways. Most coughs are caused by a cold or a chest infection, and they usually clear up on their own, although a cough can linger for a few weeks after the other symptoms have gone.
- Usually clears
- Within about 3 weeks
- Antibiotics
- Rarely needed
- See a doctor
- If it lasts more than 3 weeks
Types of cough
- A dry, tickly cough, without much mucus — often follows a cold or is triggered by irritation or allergy
- A chesty cough, which brings up mucus (phlegm) — more usual with a chest infection or bronchitis
- A cough with wheezing or shortness of breath — may be linked to asthma or another lung condition and needs to be checked
Common causes
Colds, flu and other viral infections are the most common causes of a short-term cough. Smoking, allergies, asthma, acid reflux and postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of the throat) can cause a lingering cough. Some blood pressure medicines (ACE inhibitors) can cause a persistent dry cough — if you think this may apply to you, speak to your pharmacist or doctor, and do not stop your medicine yourself.
What you can do yourself
- Drink plenty of fluids, so mucus stays loose.
- A warm drink of honey and lemon can soothe a cough and sore throat. Do not give honey to babies under 1.
- Prop your head up with extra pillows at night, which can ease coughing when lying down.
- Avoid smoky places, and if you smoke, stopping will help — ask us about support.
- Rest, and take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you have a fever or aches and they are suitable for you.
- Lozenges may help older children and adults.
Cough medicines
Over-the-counter cough medicines can ease symptoms but do not make a cough clear more quickly. Cough and cold medicines should not be given to children under 6. Children aged 6 to 12 should only have them after asking a pharmacist. Adults should ask us which type suits their kind of cough, and check it is safe with any other medicines.
How PRX Pharmacy can help
Tell our pharmacists what kind of cough you have, how long you have had it and about any other symptoms, and we will recommend a suitable treatment or tell you if you need to see a doctor.
When to get medical help
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- • You are struggling to breathe, cannot speak in full sentences, or have blue, grey or very pale lips or skin
- • You have severe chest pain
- • You are coughing up a lot of blood
- • You are choking, or a child has started coughing after choking on something
- • A child has a harsh, barking cough with noisy breathing (a high-pitched sound) at rest and is struggling to breathe
Contact your GP practice or call 111 the same day if:
- • Your cough has lasted more than 3 weeks
- • You have coughed up any blood, even a small amount
- • You are wheezy or breathless, or have chest pain when breathing or coughing
- • You have a high temperature that has lasted several days, or you get better and then suddenly worse
- • You have unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or a hoarse voice for more than 3 weeks
- • You have a long-term lung or heart condition, or a weakened immune system, and your cough is getting worse
- • You are a smoker or ex-smoker and your cough has changed or become persistent
- • You or a child have severe coughing fits, sometimes with a "whooping" sound or vomiting afterwards, and especially if it is a baby
If you are ever worried and unsure, ask us or call 111. Trust your instincts — it is always better to ask.
This guide is general information written by the PRX Pharmacy team. It does not replace advice from a pharmacist or doctor who knows your medical history.
Last updated 24 September 2026. Clinically reviewed by Milan Patel, Pharmacist on 24 September 2026.
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