Coughing is something we all deal with now and then. Most of the time, it’s nothing serious, just a little tickle in your throat or a pesky cold. But sometimes, a cough stick around longer than it should or comes with other weird symptoms, and that’s when you have to pay attention. In this article, I’ll go over the different types of coughs, what they might mean, and when you should consider calling a doctor. If you’re in Sotogrande, Helicopteros Sanitarios' Home GP Doctor for a Cough is available to evaluate your symptoms and provide treatment in the comfort of your home.
Types of Cough and What They Mean
Not all coughs are the same. Some are dry, some are wet, some are short-lived, and others seem like they’re never going to go away. Let’s get into it.
1. Acute vs. Chronic Cough
- Acute cough (less than three weeks): Usually a cold, the flu, or maybe bronchitis. Uncomfortable, but not scary.
- Chronic cough (over eight weeks): More concerning. Could be asthma, acid reflux, or something going on in your lungs.
2. Dry vs. Wet Cough
- Dry cough: Feels scratchy and doesn’t bring anything up. Allergies, asthma, or even some viral infections can cause this.
- Wet cough: You’re coughing up mucus, but it helps clear it out. Could be a sign of an infection like pneumonia.
When Should You Be Worried?
Most coughs are harmless, but here’s when you should probably call our Home GP Doctor for a Cough in Sotogrande:
1. It’s Been Hanging Around Too Long
If you’ve been coughing for three weeks and it’s not getting better, something’s up. Time to get it checked out.
2. You Can’t Breathe Right
Feeling short of breath or wheezing along with your cough? That could mean asthma, pneumonia, or something more serious.
3. You Have a Fever
A high fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) plus a cough? That might mean a bacterial infection, and you might need antibiotics.
4. You’re Coughing Up Blood
Okay, this one’s a no-brainer. Blood in your cough is not normal. Call us ASAP.
5. Your Chest Hurts
If coughing is causing sharp chest pain, that could be inflammation or even something more serious like a heart problem. Best to get it checked.
6. You’re Losing Weight Without Trying
A cough plus unexplained weight loss? That’s something you don’t want to ignore. It could point to an underlying illness that needs attention.
How Our Home GP Doctor in Sotogrande Can Help
If you’re not sure whether your cough is harmless or something more serious, you don’t have to guess. Helicopteros Sanitarios' Home GP Doctor for a Cough in Sotogrande can assess your symptoms, figure out what’s going on, and get you the right treatment, all without you having to step foot in a clinic. If your cough is hanging around longer than it should or comes with other concerning symptoms, don’t wait. Get in touch today, and let’s take care of it before it becomes a bigger problem.