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)
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Drink warm soothing liquids to help relieve coughing spasms – lemon and honey is soothing. (Do not give honey to children under 12 months old)
• Try repeatedly swallowing
• Blow your nose and avoid sniffling
• Avoid exposure to smoke
Phlegm (productive cough)
• Breathe warm, moist air (humidified) like in the bathroom when the shower is running
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Elevate the head of your bed or sleep propped up on pillows
• Breath in through your nose to reduce coughing
• 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
• Avoid exposure to smoke
• 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.