How long is it normal for a cough to last after a cold or flu

A persistent cough that lasts more than three weeks can be a warning sign for serious conditions, doctors warn. Although many people associate this symptom with viruses or colds specific to the cold season, specialists point out that the persistence of a cough can indicate respiratory problems, bacterial infections or even chronic diseases.

Prolonged cough: What can it hide?

According to doctors, a cough that does not go away after the usual treatments can have various causes:

1. Prolonged viral infections: In the cold season, the body can be affected by several viruses successively, which prolong the symptoms.
2. Bacterial superinfections: They often occur after a virus, when opportunistic bacteria infect weakened airways.
3. Chronic respiratory diseases: Asthma, chronic bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can cause a persistent cough.
4. Tuberculosis: A still prevalent disease in Romania, tuberculosis is manifested by cough, fever and weight loss.
5. Lung cancer: Although less common, a persistent cough accompanied by other symptoms (weight loss, shortness of breath) may indicate this serious condition.
6. Allergies and gastroesophageal reflux: These conditions can irritate the airways, leading to a chronic cough.

Frequent viral infections in the cold season

Doctors draw attention to the prevailing viruses during this period, which can cause a persistent cough:

• Influenza and parainfluenza viruses: Responsible for most cases of seasonal flu.
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): Common in children, it can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia.
• For Rhinovirus: Common causes of common colds, but can aggravate other respiratory conditions.
• Coronaviruses (including common strains): Although less severe than COVID-19, these viruses can prolong respiratory symptoms.
• HMPV (human metapneumovirus): It can cause severe infections, especially in children and the elderly.

“If a virus or flu persists for more than 6 days and the symptoms do not improve, patients should take this situation seriously and go to the doctor. An untreated infection can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia or heart problems,” warns family doctor Rodica Tănăsescu.

Complications that require specialized treatment

Prolonged cough can lead to severe complications if not treated in time. These include:

• Pneumonia: A lung infection that requires treatment with antibiotics and, in severe cases, hospitalization.
• Respiratory failure: It can occur as a result of undiagnosed chronic diseases.
• Bacterial superinfections: It requires specific treatment to prevent health deterioration.

Although the consumption of antibiotics decreased by 10.2% in Romania in the last year, our country remains in first place in Europe in terms of bacterial resistance. Doctors emphasize that antibiotics should be used only when absolutely necessary, in confirmed cases of bacterial superinfections.

How do you recognize a dangerous cough?

Signs that should prompt you to see a doctor include:

• Cough that persists for more than three weeks
• Constant fever
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chest pains
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• He spits blood

What should you do if you have a persistent cough?

1. Consult a specialist: Your family doctor or a pulmonologist can identify the exact causes and recommend further investigations such as x-rays or blood tests.
2. Avoid self-medication: Do not take antibiotics or other medicines without a doctor’s prescription.
3. Stay hydrated: Warm liquids help soothe throat irritation and loosen secretions.
4. Ventilate the rooms: Clean air and optimal humidity contribute to respiratory health.
5. Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Quit smoking, avoid exposure to pollutants and eat a balanced diet.