How Long Does Persistent Deep Cough With Congestion Take To Cure?

Posted on Mon, 16 Jan 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 16 Jan 2017 Answered on

Fri, 10 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I have had a deep cough with congestion for about 5 weeks. I saw an emergency doc after one week who said it was a virus. Xrays showed no pneumonia. How long should this take to clear?

Answered by Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Information

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

I think it is time for you to go back in to be seen.

Most respiratory infections start out as being caused by viruses. It can take up to 3 weeks to clear a viral bronchitis or sinus infection. Sometimes longer.

However, if it continues for longer than that, we need to revisit the infection as sometimes a secondary infection develops with bacteria. Typically then there is also fever and discolored mucus. But not always.

So, I think it's time to go back in to be seen, even if the chest X-ray was clear 4 weeks ago.

If the chest congestion seems to be coming from drainage from sinuses, consider a decongestant (oral pseudoephedrine) and steroid nasal spray, which may decrease the drainage.

I hope you are feeling better soon!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar