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Cough
Coughing is a normal reflex that helps clear the lungs. Usually it is a minor annoyance, but sometimes a cough is a sign of a more serious condition. Severe coughing episodes may cause muscle soreness or even broken ribs. Acute cough lasts for 3 weeks or less. If a cough lasts for more than 3 weeks, it is considered chronic.
Causes
Treatment
Self-Care
Related topics
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What to do About Cough
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| Mild cough, recent cold |
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| Cough that interferes with sleep or activities and doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medications |
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| Cough that lasts more than 3 weeks |
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| Symptoms getting worse after 3 to 5 days, or not improving after 7 days |
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| Cough and chronic health problems or in someone over age 65 |
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| Exposure to pertussis or tuberculosis |
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Resources
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