23/06/2022
You may continue to have persistent cough even after recovery from COVID-19.
Please consult your doctor if you have shortness of breath, chest pain, cough for more than a month, with new or worsening symptoms or when you cough out blood.
Some people are experiencing prolonged coughing after their COVID-19 recovery. It can persist for weeks or even months.
Ways to help your cough:
Dry (non-productive cough)
β’ Drink plenty of fluids
β’ Drink warm soothing liquids to help relieve coughing spasms β lemon and honey is soothing. (Do not give honey to children under 12 months old)
β’ Try repeatedly swallowing
β’ Blow your nose and avoid sniffling
β’ Avoid exposure to smoke
Phlegm (productive cough)
β’ Breathe warm, moist air (humidified) like in the bathroom when the shower is running
β’ Drink plenty of fluids
β’ Elevate the head of your bed or sleep propped up on pillows
β’ Breath in through your nose to reduce coughing
β’ Coughing up mucus is important to protect your lungs against pneumonia, so take a cough suppressant only if you are finding it hard to sleep
β’ Avoid exposure to smoke
β’ Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water and put 2 or 3 drops in each nostril, then blow your nose. This can help clear mucus and soothe your cough.
When to see your doctor:
Your cough causes shortness of breath, severe pain or you cough up blood
Lasts for a month or more. You are starting to become increasingly unwell with new or worsening symptoms.
Call Healthline on 0800 611 116 if you are unsure what to do.