Cold & Cough Services
Understanding Coughs
Types of Coughs
- Acute Coughs: Acute coughs are typically linked to common colds, flu, pneumonia, or acute bronchitis. These coughs usually last for less than three weeks.
- Chronic Coughs: Chronic coughs are often associated with conditions like allergies, asthma, smoking, croup, chronic bronchitis, GERD, or COPD and can persist for eight weeks or longer. A chronic cough can disrupt your sleep, lead to vomiting, or cause lightheadedness.
When to Seek Treatment for Your Cough
- Your cough persists for more than one week.
- You are coughing up yellow or green mucus.
- You experience wheezing or shortness of breath.
- You have a fever.
While these symptoms usually do not require an emergency room visit, if your cough disrupts your daily activities, Midwest Express Clinic is the ideal solution for fast and effective care for non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries.
At-Home Cough Remedies
Here are some at-home remedies you can consider:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids; water is the best choice, as it helps to thin mucus.
- Gargle: Use warm saltwater to clean your throat and loosen any mucus.
- Cough drops: These can soothe your throat.
- Avoid tobacco products: Smoking can exacerbate coughing.
- Ginger: It can be used in tea to clear nasal passages.
We’re here to support you in your journey to better health, and our medical team is ready to provide personalized care and advice for your cold and cough symptoms. Don’t hesitate to visit us for fast and friendly service when you need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a cough, and why do I have one?
What are the different types of coughs, and how can I distinguish between them?
Acute Coughs: Typically linked to common colds, flu, pneumonia, or acute bronchitis, these coughs last for less than three weeks.
Chronic Coughs: Often associated with conditions like allergies, asthma, smoking, croup, chronic bronchitis, GERD, or COPD, they can persist for eight weeks or longer. Chronic coughs can disrupt sleep, lead to vomiting, or cause lightheadedness.
When should I seek medical treatment for my cough?
- Your cough persists for more than one week.
- You are coughing up yellow or green mucus.
- You experience wheezing or shortness of breath.
- You have a fever.
While these symptoms typically don’t require an emergency room visit, if your cough disrupts daily activities, Midwest Express Clinic’s urgent care provides fast and effective care for non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries.
What can I do at home to alleviate my chronic cough?
Consider these at-home remedies:
Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids; water is the best choice, as it helps to thin mucus.
Gargle: Use warm saltwater to clean your throat and loosen any mucus.
Cough drops: These can soothe your throat.
Avoid tobacco products: Smoking can exacerbate coughing.
Ginger: It can be used in tea to clear nasal passages.
What are the potential causes of a persistent cough, and how can it be evaluated?
Midwest Express Clinic is committed to providing you with the best care and guidance for your cold and cough symptoms. Our experienced medical staff is here to help you on your path to recovery, ensuring you receive personalized care tailored to your needs.
Cough and cold treatment is available at these locations:
Illinois
Aurora
Blue Island
Bolingbrook
Bourbonnais
Burbank
Calumet Park
Carol Stream
Chicago Ridge (coming soon)
Cicero
Elmhurst on Butterfield
Elmhurst on York Street
Lombard
Matteson
Melrose Park
Norridge
Northbrook
Richton Park
River Forest
Skokie
Tinley Park on Harlem
Tinley Park on LaGrange
Westmont
Wheaton
Willowbrook