Decoding a Cough: What Does all that Hacking Mean—and What Helps
1/19/2026
Respiratory illnesses continue to rise with coughs being a common overlapping symptom among them all. Decoding the characteristics of a cough, including its duration, sound and accompanying symptoms, can help patients understand what is going on and how to treat it.
Most people are typically contagious the first three to five days after the initial respiratory infection, according to the CDC. However, a cough can linger around longer. A temporary, acute cough typically lasts less than three weeks and is often associated with short-lived illnesses like the common cold or the flu. But, a cough that lasts longer - anywhere from four to eight weeks – is typically a sign of unresolved inflammation from illnesses like bronchitis, long COVID or other serious conditions.
In addition to the length of a cough, it is important to monitor a dry versus wet-sounding cough. A dry cough, or an unproductive cough, is more commonly associated with the flu or COVID, it doesn’t produce phlegm or mucus and it leaves a tickling sensation in the throat. A wet cough is more commonly associated with a cold, RSV or pneumonia, and may feel like mucus is stuck in the chest or back of the throat.
“While bothersome, a cough is the body’s defense mechanism for getting rid of irritants from your lungs,” said Marc Csete, M.D., board-certified pulmonologist with Key Medical Group Pulmonology. “However, if you develop other symptoms, such as a high fever, chills or wheezing, it’s time to call your doctor.”
Dr. Csete suggests these remedies to alleviate discomfort:
- Drink tea with local honey: Honey acts as a natural suppressant and contains antioxidants to help lower inflammation in your throat.
- Try a saline rinse or steam shower: Moisture and warmth can open breathing passages and thin mucus to help expel it out.
- Sleep with the head elevated: Propping the head up at a higher angle can help drain mucus and relieve sinus pressure.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can also thin mucus and flush out irritants.
- Gargling with water and a small amount of apple cider vinegar every 2 - 3 hours can shorten the duration of a sore throat.
- Lastly, take over-the-counter medication: Cough suppressants can help by controlling the reflex that makes someone cough and provide temporary relief.
“We’re still in the thick of a contagious cold and flu season, so now is the time to take extra precautions,” adds Dr. Csete. “Wash your hands, avoid touching your face, cover your nose and mouth when you cough, frequently clean surfaces and, most importantly, stay home if you are feeling unwell to help stop the spread.”
If your cough is persistent and lasts more than eight weeks, talk to your primary care provider about any underlying issues, such as asthma or allergies, that may be preventing you from healing.
And seek emergency care if your cough is accompanied by blood or pink phlegm, difficulty breathing or tightening in the chest.
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