What Causes Persistent Cough After Recovering From Flu?

Posted on Mon, 28 Mar 2016

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

Mon, 28 Mar 2016 Answered on

Wed, 1 Jun 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have had a persistent cough since late January when I had the flu. I got a chest xray at the time which was clear. All my other symptoms have gone away but I can't get rid of the cough. It feels like I constantly need to clear my throat and frequently I cough up thick mucus chunks. Sometimes I cough so much I throw up. Its worse at night before I go to sleep though I usually sleep through the night without coughing. I cough about every five minutes or so.

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (38 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Get done PFT to rule out post infectious bronchitis.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
By your history and description, possibility of post infectious bronchitis is more.
It is common after flu like viral upper respiratory tract infections (URTI).
PFT (pulmonary function test) is must for the diagnosis of bronchitis.
It will also tell you about severity of the disease.
On the basis of this, you may need inhaled bronchodilator and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).
Don't worry, you will be alright.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

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