What causes persistent cough after the later stage of wind-heat感冒 (common cold), and how should it be managed?
Persistent cough after the later stage of wind-heat common cold can be improved through anti-infective treatment, antitussive and expectorant therapy, anti-inflammatory treatment, symptomatic supportive care, and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) regulation. If cough lasts longer than one week and is accompanied by worsening fever, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms, prompt medical attention is necessary.
1. Anti-infective treatment: When bacterial infection is confirmed, use sensitive antibiotics as prescribed by a doctor. For viral infections, treatment focuses on symptom relief. Avoid blind use of antimicrobial agents to prevent dysbiosis.
2. Antitussive and expectorant treatment: Use mucolytic agents or expectorants to promote sputum clearance. Avoid strong antitussives that may hinder secretion expulsion, thereby alleviating cough caused by throat irritation.
3. Anti-inflammatory treatment: Appropriately use anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation of the respiratory mucosa, relieve mucosal congestion and edema, and suppress cough reflexes. Strict adherence to prescribed dosages is essential.
4. Symptomatic supportive treatment: Ensure adequate fluid intake to maintain moist airways, supplement with vitamins, avoid spicy and irritating foods, minimize respiratory tract irritation, and support recovery.
5. TCM regulation: Use heat-clearing, lung-moistening, cough-relieving, and phlegm-resolving traditional Chinese herbs or proprietary Chinese medicines. Combine with acupoint massage and other methods to regulate body constitution and alleviate cough symptoms, under the guidance of qualified practitioners.
Daily care should include maintaining indoor air circulation, avoiding exposure to irritants such as smoke, dust, and pollen, ensuring sufficient sleep, avoiding excessive fatigue, and engaging in mild physical exercise to enhance immunity, promote respiratory function recovery, and reduce cough recurrence.
