In our busy lives, it isn’t uncommon that our health ranks the lowest on our list of priorities, especially when the concerned condition is something as insignificant as a cough. Some assume it will go away on its own in a few days while others would rather self-medicate to get rid of the symptoms. Cough is often misinterpreted for being a viral infection that will run its due course and go away on its own, but when is it more serious? While not every cough is an indication of a more sinister issue, how can you differentiate between the two? By identifying the symptoms, of course!
Your symptoms dictate whether your cough warrants a visit to your doctor or not.
When to See Your Doctor
Signs of a persistent cough that may signal something more serious than a viral infection:
- A cough that produces yellowish or tanned sticky mucous, accompanied by a fever which has lasted for more than 6 days.
- Coughing up of pinkish mucous. It could be a sign of some underlying untreated heart condition.
- Coughing up of blood –even a few drops is alarming.
- Wheezing and experiencing shortness of breath resulting in dizziness or accompanying chest pain.
- Having night sweats or fevers.
- A cough that makes a whooping sound and is persistent.
- A cough that doesn’t go away even after 3 weeks.
- Coughing that continues for hours without stopping.
Although there are many herbal remedies and self-help therapies that might subdue the symptoms, it’s important to treat the underlying condition.
If you find that any of the above-mentioned symptoms resonate with you and your cough, we recommend that you consult your primary care physician for a complete check-up. With years of experience in treating cases of mild and chronic coughs, Dr. Parikh’s practice is well equipped to help you understand your symptoms, successfully diagnose your condition, and provide the necessary treatment. To schedule an appointment, call 469-262-5762 or visit www.healthonemedicine.com for more information.