What Causes Coughing During Seasonal Changes and How to Treat It
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
Coughing may occur with lung or bronchial infections. In general, antibiotic treatment is recommended; if the cough is severe, anti-infective medications such as cefradine can be taken. Allergic reactions to certain substances can also cause coughing—try to avoid allergens whenever possible. Maintain a light diet and avoid spicy foods that may irritate the throat.
Seasonal cough is mainly caused by factors such as lung infection, bronchitis, or allergic cough. Specific treatment should be determined according to the underlying cause, as detailed below:
1. Lung infection, bronchitis
Changes in season and sudden temperature fluctuations act as physical and chemical stimuli that can either independently cause coughing or coexist with respiratory infections, worsening pre-existing respiratory symptoms such as cough and sputum production. When respiratory infection is already present, these sudden changes in climate can further aggravate the cough resulting from acute infection. It is recommended to treat with anti-infective medications such as cefradine, cephalexin, or cefaclor.
2. Allergic cough
This usually occurs when patients are exposed to allergens such as pollen or bacterial invasion, which may trigger coughing. In such cases, it is advisable to maintain proper warmth and general care. Patients should drink plenty of water and may take medications such as azithromycin or montelukast sodium.
During episodes of coughing, ensure the environment has fresh air; smoking must be prohibited, and rooms should be regularly ventilated by opening windows. Irritating foods should also be avoided, including those that are overly sweet, salty, greasy, fried, cold, or spicy. Beverages such as coffee should also be avoided.
