Question about Coughing

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Do people here go to doctors when they are coughing or they buy medicine?

I generally take cough drops or a cough syrup if I have a cough that lasts a few days. If it doesn't go away in about a week- I see a doctor usually to get something strong and to make sure it's not something very serious.

Around Thanksgiving, I had a cough that kept me awake throughout the night. It all started with an innocent little soar throat, then the cold, then the cough, turned to bronchitis and a sinus infection. The doctors told me that people should get the cough checked out if they have it for a week or more, and especially if it doesn't get much better or keeps them awake.

A generally reasonably sound approach, is to buy medicine in the first instance, and then consult a doctor "if symptoms persist for more than <insert time>" as usually stated on the medicine's label. Any cough that persists for 3 weeks or more without getting significantly better is grounds to see a doctor. In severe cases, see one sooner.

I know quite a few other people who had bronchitis, and none of them had to stay in the hospital. I hope you start feeling better soon either way. I know it's no fun waiting around for healthcare. Hugs.