COUGH
PROBLEM
Coughing is an important defense mechanism your body uses to clear your airways of mucus and inhaled particles.
CAUSE
A cough is often associated with other respiratory symptoms and may be a sign of infection. Coughing is often related to environmental or chemical irritants such as smoking.
PREVENTION
A.The flu vaccine is recommended each year; however, the flu vaccine does not prevent a cough.
B.Coughing cannot be prevented, but you do have some voluntary control over it.
C.Occasionally, medications can cause a cough. Therefore, review all medications with your healthcare provider.
TREATMENT PLAN
A.Stop smoking, including exposure to secondhand smoke. At the minimum, maintain a smoke-free bedroom.
B.Using a room humidifier may be helpful. Keep your humidifier clean—it can grow bacteria.
C.Change heating and air conditioning filters often to decrease environmental irritants.
D.Coughing for several minutes may tire you, so you may need extra rest.
Activity: No activity restrictions.
Diet: Drink at least 10 to 15 glasses of liquids a day.
Medications:
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If:
A.You have difficulty breathing.
B.You cough up blood.
C.You develop other symptoms besides coughing, such as green sinus drainage and/or a sore throat.
D.You cannot sleep because of coughing.
E.You develop a fever over 101°F.
F.Other: ___________________________________________________________
Phone: ____________________________
PATIENT TEACHING GUIDE