🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 159 (from laksa052)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa159.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/how-to-stop-a-nagging-cough\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/how-to-stop-a-nagging-cough\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/how-to-stop-a-nagging-cough","crawl_time":1772925949,"first_indexed_time":1707342467,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,ynhhs!www,\/articles\/how-to-stop-a-nagging-cough s443","src_root_hash":"8056017582372743959","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How To Stop a Nagging Cough","meta_descriptions":["Sometimes a cough can last for a few days or a few weeks. Learn how to stop coughing and how to stop a nagging cough."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Most symptoms associated with common respiratory illnesses will resolve within a couple of days. Yet the cough that often accompanies colds, flu, COVID and\nRSV\n can linger for weeks.\nIt’s normal for an acute cough to last anywhere from a few days to three to four weeks. Post viral coughing, which is when you generally feel better but still have a cough, can last up to eight weeks.\nDuring the height of the winter respiratory season, a lingering cough could also be the sign of a new illness.\n“If you have fevers, chills, if you are short of breath, are bringing things up when you cough, or you notice that you don’t have the breathing stamina that you used to, this could be a sign of a pneumonia, and you should see a licensed healthcare professional to ensure that there isn’t something beyond a viral cold that is causing your symptoms,” said Melanie Raffoul, MD, chief medical officer, Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care.\nHow to stop coughing\nTreatments for a cough vary because a cough can be caused by many things, not just seasonal viruses. For example, a dry, hacking cough could be caused by allergies, asthma, GERD (reflux), pneumonia, or bronchitis. In children, a\nhacking cough\n could be the sign of croup, an upper respiratory infection that can be severe.\nTherefore, patients should not start taking any over-the-counter medication marketed towards cough without consulting a clinician first.\n“What can be concerning with cough medications is that some are sedative. That can stop you from coughing, but it’s not always safe to stop your urge to cough, and some can raise your blood pressure. It’s always important to review any new medications including supplements and over-the-counter medications with a clinician to make sure you’re not missing any side effects or potentially dangerous combinations,” said Dr. Raffoul.\nThose looking for relief can try other options first. These can include:\nStarting with humidification: Sit in a steamy room or sauna.\nSaltwater gargling is valuable for treating postnasal drip, which causes cough.\nIf you don’t have an allergy to honey, honey can be used as a natural cough suppressant. Honey should only be given to those over 1, and always consult your pediatrician before giving a child honey.\nStay hydrated with plenty of fluids.\nWhile many coughs go away eventually with at home remedies, others warrant the use of an antibiotic such as strep throat, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. Anytime kids or babies have a cough, always ask your pediatrician for guidance. Humidification and hydration are important for young patients too, but over-the-counter cough medicines are not recommended and can be dangerous.\nWhen to go to urgent care\nSome warning signs to seek medical care right away include shortness of breath and coughing up dark colored mucus. Even if you are generally feeling OK, but don’t feel 100%, it doesn’t hurt to get an evaluation.\nFind a Walk-In or\nUrgent Care location\n near you.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/how-to-stop-a-nagging-cough#main)\n\n[![Yale New Haven Health logo](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Logo\/YNHHS_hor_clr_484x127.ashx?h=127&iar=0&w=484&hash=11E8047061263B1C6342665F74BC888B)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/)\n\n[Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-doctor)[Get Care Now](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/get-care-now)\n\n- Services\n  ### Services\n  #### Featured Specialties\n  - [Aging (Geriatrics)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/aging \"Aging (Geriatrics)\")\n  - [Cancer (Oncology)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Cancer \"Cancer (Oncology)\")\n  - [Children’s (Pediatrics)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/childrens-pediatrics \"Children’s (Pediatrics)\")\n  - [Digestive Disorders (Gastroenterology)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/digestive-disorders \"Digestive Disorders (Gastroenterology)\")\n  - [Heart & Vascular](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/heart \"Heart & Vascular\")\n  - [Home Healthcare](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/health-at-home)\n  - [Mental Health (Psychiatry)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Mental-Health \"Mental Health (Psychiatry)\")\n  - [Neurology & Neurosurgery](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/neurology-and-neurosurgery \"Neurology & Neurosurgery\")\n  - [Orthopedics](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/orthopedics \"Orthopedics\")\n  - [Primary Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/primary-care \"Primary Care\")\n  - [Transplantation](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Transplantation \"Transplantation\")\n  - [Trauma & Burn](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/trauma-and-burn \"Trauma & Burn\")\n  - [Women’s Health](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Womens-Health \"Women’s Health\")\n  \n  [View All Services](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care \"View All Services\")\n  \n  #### More Care\n  - [COVID-19 Resources](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/covid-19 \"COVID-19 Vaccine\")\n  - 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[Transplantation](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Transplantation \"Transplantation\")\n  - [Trauma & Burn](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/trauma-and-burn \"Trauma & Burn\")\n  \n  [View All Services](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care \"View All Services\")\n  \n  ### More Care\n  - [COVID-19 Resources](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/covid-19 \"COVID-19 Vaccine\")\n  - [For Medical Professionals](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/medical-professionals \"For Medical Professionals\")\n  - [Get Care Now](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/get-care-now)\n  - [Pharmacy](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/pharmacy)\n  - [Urgent Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care \"Urgent Care\")\n  \n  close\n- Locations\n  ### Location Type\n  - [Ambulatory \/ Outpatient Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#sort=relevancy&numberOfResults=25&f:facilitytype=[Outpatient%20Medical%20Centers])\n  - [Blood Draw](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location#f:facilitytype=[Blood%20Draw])\n  - 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[Westerly Hospital](https:\/\/www.westerlyhospital.org\/ \"Westerly Hospital\")\n  - [Yale Medicine](https:\/\/www.yalemedicine.org\/ \"Yale Medicine\")\n  - [Yale New Haven Children's Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/childrens-hospital)\n  - [Yale New Haven Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/ \"Yale New Haven Hospital\")\n  - [Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/psychiatric \"Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital\")\n  \n  close\n- Patients & Visitors\n  ### Patients\n  - [Billing & Insurance](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/billing-insurance \"<br\/> Billing & Insurance\")\n  - [Classes & Events](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/events \"Classes & Events\")\n  - [Financial Assistance](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/billing-insurance\/Financial-assistance \"Financial Assistance\")\n  - [Get Care Now](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/get-care-now)\n  - [Language Services](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/language-services)\n  \n  - [News and Media](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media)\n  - [No Surprises Act](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Patient-Rights-and-Responsibilities\/no-surprise-billing)\n  - [Patient Guidelines](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patients-visitors\/preparing\/visitor-policy \"Patient Guidelines\")\n  - [Patient Rights and Responsibilities](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/Patient-Rights-and-Responsibilities \"Patient Rights and Responsibilities\")\n  - [Pay Your Bill](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/ \"Pay Your Bill\")\n  \n  [View All Patient & Visitor Information](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patients-visitors)\n  \n  ### Patient Tools\n  - [Make An Appointment](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/make-an-appointment \"Make An Appointment\")\n  - [Prescription Refills](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/ \"Prescription Refills\")\n  - [Request Medical Records](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/online-tools\/Request-Medical-Records \"Request Medical Records\")\n  - [Thank Your Caregiver - ThinkThanks Employee Spotlight](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/employee-spotlight)\n  \n  close\n\n[![My chart icon, a folder with a heart in the middle.](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Icons\/Header-Icons\/icon-mychart-header.ashx?iar=0&hash=65F8CEB084B4838CD046EF032FAA6222) MyChart](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/Authentication\/Login)\n\nSearch ![Search icon magnifying glass](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Icons\/Header-Icons\/icon-search.ashx?iar=0&hash=9B497E70A197DB7B978628BC7F382EB4) ![close search](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Icons\/Header-Icons\/close-search.ashx?iar=0&hash=ADF7FAD1D54E8EA37EB30B6DB3D09526)\n\n[![Yale New Haven Health logo](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Logo\/YNHHS_hor_clr_484x127.ashx?h=127&iar=0&w=484&hash=11E8047061263B1C6342665F74BC888B)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/)  ![Search icon magnifying glass](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Icons\/Header-Icons\/icon-search.ashx?iar=0&hash=9B497E70A197DB7B978628BC7F382EB4)\n\n### Popular Services\n- [Gastroenterology](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/digestive-disorders)\n- [Neurology & Neurosurgery](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/neurology-and-neurosurgery)\n- [Primary Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/primary-care)\n\n[View All Services](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care)\n\n### Popular Locations\n- [North Haven Medical Center](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/locations\/north-haven-6-devine-street)\n- [Park Avenue Medical Center](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/locations\/trumbull-5520-park-avenue-medical-center)\n- [Yale New Haven Hospital - York Street Campus](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/locations\/new-haven-20-york-street)\n\n[View All Locations](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location)\n\n#### Frequent Searches\n- [Medical Records](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/online-tools\/Request-Medical-Records)\n- [MyChart](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/)\n- [Primary Care Physician](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/patient-care\/primary-care)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/contrast-icon.svg)\n\nContrast\n\nOff\n\nOn\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/contact-icon.svg) Contact](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/contact)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/share-icon.svg)\n\nShare\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/donate-icon.svg) Donate](https:\/\/www.givetoynhh.org\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/mychar-icon.svg) MyChart](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/Authentication\/Login)\n\nHelp\n\n![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/contrast-icon.svg)\n\nContrast\n\nOff\n\nOn\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/contact-icon.svg) Contact](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/contact)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/share-icon.svg)\n\nShare\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/donate-icon.svg) Donate](https:\/\/www.givetoynhh.org\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/Dist\/img\/mychar-icon.svg) MyChart](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/Authentication\/Login)\n\n#### Explore this section\n- - [Crispy Chicken Bites with Homemade Ranch Dressing](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/crispy-chicken-bites-with-homemade-ranch-dressing)\n  - [Foods To Add or Avoid for a Healthy Pregnancy Diet](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/healthy-pregnancy-diet)\n  - [Heart Attacks Can Happen to Anyone. That Means Women, Too](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/heart-attack-risk-for-women)\n  - [High School Athlete Warns Others About Internal Bleeding After Ski Crash](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/high-school-athlete-internal-bleeding)\n  - [How To Stop a Nagging Cough](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/how-to-stop-a-nagging-cough)\n  - [I'm So Dizzy Should I Call My Doctor](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/im-so-dizzy-should-i-call-my-doctor)\n  - [Positional Vertigo: What It Is and What To Do About It](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/positional-vertigo-what-it-is-and-what-to-do-about-it)\n  - [Tests During Pregnancy: Prenatal Screenings in the First, Second and Third Trimester](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/prenatal-screenings-during-each-trimester)\n  - [Preventing Pickleball Injuries: A Comprehensive Guide](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/prevent-pickleball-injuries)\n  - [When It Comes to Coronary Artery Disease, Think \"Prevention\"](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/when-it-comes-to-coronary-artery-disease-think-prevention)\n\n- [Back to Blog](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog)\n\nTreatments\n\n# How To Stop a Nagging Cough\nBy Anna Gunther\n\n*Updated October 07, 2025*\n\nPublished February 07, 2024\n\n![Coughing man wonders how to stop a nagging cough](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Articles\/2024\/cough.ashx?h=800&iar=0&w=1200&hash=E890C7842E9560BDCE1973812504434B)\n\nMost symptoms associated with common respiratory illnesses will resolve within a couple of days. Yet the cough that often accompanies colds, flu, COVID and [RSV](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/what-to-know-about-the-new-rsv-vaccines) can linger for weeks.\n\nIt’s normal for an acute cough to last anywhere from a few days to three to four weeks. Post viral coughing, which is when you generally feel better but still have a cough, can last up to eight weeks.\n\nDuring the height of the winter respiratory season, a lingering cough could also be the sign of a new illness.\n\n“If you have fevers, chills, if you are short of breath, are bringing things up when you cough, or you notice that you don’t have the breathing stamina that you used to, this could be a sign of a pneumonia, and you should see a licensed healthcare professional to ensure that there isn’t something beyond a viral cold that is causing your symptoms,” said Melanie Raffoul, MD, chief medical officer, Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care.\n\n## How to stop coughing\nTreatments for a cough vary because a cough can be caused by many things, not just seasonal viruses. For example, a dry, hacking cough could be caused by allergies, asthma, GERD (reflux), pneumonia, or bronchitis. In children, a [hacking cough](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/daycare-illnesses) could be the sign of croup, an upper respiratory infection that can be severe.\n\nTherefore, patients should not start taking any over-the-counter medication marketed towards cough without consulting a clinician first.\n\n“What can be concerning with cough medications is that some are sedative. That can stop you from coughing, but it’s not always safe to stop your urge to cough, and some can raise your blood pressure. It’s always important to review any new medications including supplements and over-the-counter medications with a clinician to make sure you’re not missing any side effects or potentially dangerous combinations,” said Dr. Raffoul.\n\nThose looking for relief can try other options first. These can include:\n\n- Starting with humidification: Sit in a steamy room or sauna.\n- Saltwater gargling is valuable for treating postnasal drip, which causes cough.\n- If you don’t have an allergy to honey, honey can be used as a natural cough suppressant. Honey should only be given to those over 1, and always consult your pediatrician before giving a child honey.\n- Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids.\n\nWhile many coughs go away eventually with at home remedies, others warrant the use of an antibiotic such as strep throat, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. Anytime kids or babies have a cough, always ask your pediatrician for guidance. Humidification and hydration are important for young patients too, but over-the-counter cough medicines are not recommended and can be dangerous.\n\n## When to go to urgent care\nSome warning signs to seek medical care right away include shortness of breath and coughing up dark colored mucus. Even if you are generally feeling OK, but don’t feel 100%, it doesn’t hurt to get an evaluation.\n\n*Find a Walk-In or [Urgent Care location](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care) near you.*\n\n#### Blog Topics\n- [Community](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Community])\n- [Families](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Families])\n- [Innovation](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Innovation])\n- [Op-Ed](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Op-Ed])\n- [Patient Stories](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Patient%20Stories])\n- [Prevention](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Prevention])\n- [Recipes](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Recipes])\n- [Treatments](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Treatments])\n- [Wellness](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media\/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Wellness])\n\n#### Related Services\n- [Walk-In Care - Northeast Medical Group](https:\/\/www.northeastmedicalgroup.org\/services\/walk-in-care-immediate-care)\n- [Cold & Flu Urgent Care Treatment - Yale New Haven Health System](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care\/services\/cold-and-flu)\n- [Urgent Care for Bronchitis in Connecticut & New York - Yale New Haven Health System](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care\/services\/bronchitis)\n\n## Related Articles\n[![Thema Graves](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Articles\/2026\/Thema.ashx) Patient Stories “The Energy of the Team Is Very Important”: How Rehabilitation Can Help Stroke Survivors Heal](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/rehabilitation-after-stroke)\n\n[![a family walking in the woods](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Articles\/2026\/rotker-male-infertility-family.ashx) Patient Stories From Heartache to Joy: One Couple’s Journey From Infertility to Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/journey-from-infertility-to-pregnancy)\n\n[![Dave Mortimer](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Articles\/2026\/DaveMortimerphotoDSC2748.ashx) Patient Stories Surviving a Stroke: “The Care Had Everything To Do With It”](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/lifesaving-thrombectomy-after-stroke)\n\n[![Yale New Haven Health logo](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Logo\/YNHHS\/logoynhh2x.ashx?mh=75&mw=128&hash=D610B41CB188540CD323C7D0702581D7)](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/)\n\n[Bridgeport Hospital](https:\/\/www.bridgeporthospital.org\/) [Yale New Haven Children's Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/childrens-hospital) [Greenwich Hospital](https:\/\/www.greenwichhospital.org\/) [Lawrence + Memorial Hospital](https:\/\/www.lmhospital.org\/) [Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/psychiatric) [Smilow Cancer Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/smilow) [Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care) [Westerly Hospital](https:\/\/www.westerlyhospital.org\/) [Yale New Haven Hospital](https:\/\/www.ynhh.org\/) [Clinical Affiliates](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/clinical-affiliates) [Northeast Medical Group](https:\/\/www.northeastmedicalgroup.org\/)\n\nWith the greatest of care.\n***\n\nFor Patients\n\n[find a location](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-location)[Find a Doctor or Specialist](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/find-a-doctor \"Find a doctor or specialist\")[Find a job](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/careers \"Find a job\")[Log into MyChart](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/)[Pay My Bill](https:\/\/mychart.ynhhs.org\/MyChart-PRD\/)[View news & events](\"View news & events\")[Become a vendor](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/vendors \"Become a vendor\")\n\nFind Information For\n\n[Providers](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/providers \"Providers\")[Job Seekers](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/careers \"Job Seekers\")[Employees](http:\/\/portal.ynhh.org\/)[giving](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/giving)[Media](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/news-media \"Media\")[Vendors](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/vendors \"Vendors\")[Manage Cookie Preferences](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/how-to-stop-a-nagging-cough)\n\nContact Us\n\nYale New Haven Health System  \n 789 Howard Avenue  \n New Haven, CT 06519\n\n© Copyright 2026 Yale New Haven Health\n\n[Policies](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/policies \"Policies\")[For Employees](http:\/\/portal.ynhh.org\/ \"For Employees\")[Non-discrimination](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/policies#nond \"For Employees\")[Contact Us](\"Contact Us\")","attrs_readable_markdown":"Most symptoms associated with common respiratory illnesses will resolve within a couple of days. Yet the cough that often accompanies colds, flu, COVID and [RSV](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/what-to-know-about-the-new-rsv-vaccines) can linger for weeks.\n\nIt’s normal for an acute cough to last anywhere from a few days to three to four weeks. Post viral coughing, which is when you generally feel better but still have a cough, can last up to eight weeks.\n\nDuring the height of the winter respiratory season, a lingering cough could also be the sign of a new illness.\n\n“If you have fevers, chills, if you are short of breath, are bringing things up when you cough, or you notice that you don’t have the breathing stamina that you used to, this could be a sign of a pneumonia, and you should see a licensed healthcare professional to ensure that there isn’t something beyond a viral cold that is causing your symptoms,” said Melanie Raffoul, MD, chief medical officer, Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care.\n\n## How to stop coughing\nTreatments for a cough vary because a cough can be caused by many things, not just seasonal viruses. For example, a dry, hacking cough could be caused by allergies, asthma, GERD (reflux), pneumonia, or bronchitis. In children, a [hacking cough](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/articles\/daycare-illnesses) could be the sign of croup, an upper respiratory infection that can be severe.\n\nTherefore, patients should not start taking any over-the-counter medication marketed towards cough without consulting a clinician first.\n\n“What can be concerning with cough medications is that some are sedative. That can stop you from coughing, but it’s not always safe to stop your urge to cough, and some can raise your blood pressure. It’s always important to review any new medications including supplements and over-the-counter medications with a clinician to make sure you’re not missing any side effects or potentially dangerous combinations,” said Dr. Raffoul.\n\nThose looking for relief can try other options first. These can include:\n\n- Starting with humidification: Sit in a steamy room or sauna.\n- Saltwater gargling is valuable for treating postnasal drip, which causes cough.\n- If you don’t have an allergy to honey, honey can be used as a natural cough suppressant. Honey should only be given to those over 1, and always consult your pediatrician before giving a child honey.\n- Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids.\n\nWhile many coughs go away eventually with at home remedies, others warrant the use of an antibiotic such as strep throat, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. Anytime kids or babies have a cough, always ask your pediatrician for guidance. Humidification and hydration are important for young patients too, but over-the-counter cough medicines are not recommended and can be dangerous.\n\n## When to go to urgent care\nSome warning signs to seek medical care right away include shortness of breath and coughing up dark colored mucus. Even if you are generally feeling OK, but don’t feel 100%, it doesn’t hurt to get an evaluation.\n\n*Find a Walk-In or [Urgent Care location](https:\/\/www.ynhhs.org\/urgent-care) near you.*","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	How To Stop a Nagging Cough
Meta Description	Sometimes a cough can last for a few days or a few weeks. Learn how to stop coughing and how to stop a nagging cough.
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Boilerpipe Text	Most symptoms associated with common respiratory illnesses will resolve within a couple of days. Yet the cough that often accompanies colds, flu, COVID and RSV can linger for weeks. It’s normal for an acute cough to last anywhere from a few days to three to four weeks. Post viral coughing, which is when you generally feel better but still have a cough, can last up to eight weeks. During the height of the winter respiratory season, a lingering cough could also be the sign of a new illness. “If you have fevers, chills, if you are short of breath, are bringing things up when you cough, or you notice that you don’t have the breathing stamina that you used to, this could be a sign of a pneumonia, and you should see a licensed healthcare professional to ensure that there isn’t something beyond a viral cold that is causing your symptoms,” said Melanie Raffoul, MD, chief medical officer, Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care. How to stop coughing Treatments for a cough vary because a cough can be caused by many things, not just seasonal viruses. For example, a dry, hacking cough could be caused by allergies, asthma, GERD (reflux), pneumonia, or bronchitis. In children, a hacking cough could be the sign of croup, an upper respiratory infection that can be severe. Therefore, patients should not start taking any over-the-counter medication marketed towards cough without consulting a clinician first. “What can be concerning with cough medications is that some are sedative. That can stop you from coughing, but it’s not always safe to stop your urge to cough, and some can raise your blood pressure. It’s always important to review any new medications including supplements and over-the-counter medications with a clinician to make sure you’re not missing any side effects or potentially dangerous combinations,” said Dr. Raffoul. Those looking for relief can try other options first. These can include: Starting with humidification: Sit in a steamy room or sauna. Saltwater gargling is valuable for treating postnasal drip, which causes cough. If you don’t have an allergy to honey, honey can be used as a natural cough suppressant. Honey should only be given to those over 1, and always consult your pediatrician before giving a child honey. Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids. While many coughs go away eventually with at home remedies, others warrant the use of an antibiotic such as strep throat, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. Anytime kids or babies have a cough, always ask your pediatrician for guidance. Humidification and hydration are important for young patients too, but over-the-counter cough medicines are not recommended and can be dangerous. When to go to urgent care Some warning signs to seek medical care right away include shortness of breath and coughing up dark colored mucus. Even if you are generally feeling OK, but don’t feel 100%, it doesn’t hurt to get an evaluation. Find a Walk-In or Urgent Care location near you.
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- [Crispy Chicken Bites with Homemade Ranch Dressing](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/crispy-chicken-bites-with-homemade-ranch-dressing) - [Foods To Add or Avoid for a Healthy Pregnancy Diet](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/healthy-pregnancy-diet) - [Heart Attacks Can Happen to Anyone. That Means Women, Too](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/heart-attack-risk-for-women) - [High School Athlete Warns Others About Internal Bleeding After Ski Crash](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/high-school-athlete-internal-bleeding) - [How To Stop a Nagging Cough](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/how-to-stop-a-nagging-cough) - [I'm So Dizzy Should I Call My Doctor](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/im-so-dizzy-should-i-call-my-doctor) - [Positional Vertigo: What It Is and What To Do About It](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/positional-vertigo-what-it-is-and-what-to-do-about-it) - [Tests During Pregnancy: Prenatal Screenings in the First, Second and Third Trimester](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/prenatal-screenings-during-each-trimester) - [Preventing Pickleball Injuries: A Comprehensive Guide](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/prevent-pickleball-injuries) - [When It Comes to Coronary Artery Disease, Think "Prevention"](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/when-it-comes-to-coronary-artery-disease-think-prevention) - [Back to Blog](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog) Treatments # How To Stop a Nagging Cough By Anna Gunther Updated October 07, 2025 Published February 07, 2024 ![Coughing man wonders how to stop a nagging cough](https://www.ynhhs.org/-/media/Images/Articles/2024/cough.ashx?h=800&iar=0&w=1200&hash=E890C7842E9560BDCE1973812504434B) Most symptoms associated with common respiratory illnesses will resolve within a couple of days. Yet the cough that often accompanies colds, flu, COVID and [RSV](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/what-to-know-about-the-new-rsv-vaccines) can linger for weeks. It’s normal for an acute cough to last anywhere from a few days to three to four weeks. Post viral coughing, which is when you generally feel better but still have a cough, can last up to eight weeks. During the height of the winter respiratory season, a lingering cough could also be the sign of a new illness. “If you have fevers, chills, if you are short of breath, are bringing things up when you cough, or you notice that you don’t have the breathing stamina that you used to, this could be a sign of a pneumonia, and you should see a licensed healthcare professional to ensure that there isn’t something beyond a viral cold that is causing your symptoms,” said Melanie Raffoul, MD, chief medical officer, Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care. ## How to stop coughing Treatments for a cough vary because a cough can be caused by many things, not just seasonal viruses. For example, a dry, hacking cough could be caused by allergies, asthma, GERD (reflux), pneumonia, or bronchitis. In children, a [hacking cough](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/daycare-illnesses) could be the sign of croup, an upper respiratory infection that can be severe. Therefore, patients should not start taking any over-the-counter medication marketed towards cough without consulting a clinician first. “What can be concerning with cough medications is that some are sedative. That can stop you from coughing, but it’s not always safe to stop your urge to cough, and some can raise your blood pressure. It’s always important to review any new medications including supplements and over-the-counter medications with a clinician to make sure you’re not missing any side effects or potentially dangerous combinations,” said Dr. Raffoul. Those looking for relief can try other options first. These can include: - Starting with humidification: Sit in a steamy room or sauna. - Saltwater gargling is valuable for treating postnasal drip, which causes cough. - If you don’t have an allergy to honey, honey can be used as a natural cough suppressant. Honey should only be given to those over 1, and always consult your pediatrician before giving a child honey. - Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids. While many coughs go away eventually with at home remedies, others warrant the use of an antibiotic such as strep throat, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. Anytime kids or babies have a cough, always ask your pediatrician for guidance. Humidification and hydration are important for young patients too, but over-the-counter cough medicines are not recommended and can be dangerous. ## When to go to urgent care Some warning signs to seek medical care right away include shortness of breath and coughing up dark colored mucus. Even if you are generally feeling OK, but don’t feel 100%, it doesn’t hurt to get an evaluation. Find a Walk-In or [Urgent Care location](https://www.ynhhs.org/urgent-care) near you. #### Blog Topics - [Community](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Community]) - [Families](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Families]) - [Innovation](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Innovation]) - [Op-Ed](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Op-Ed]) - [Patient Stories](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Patient%20Stories]) - [Prevention](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Prevention]) - [Recipes](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Recipes]) - [Treatments](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Treatments]) - [Wellness](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media/blog-search#&f:articlecategorydisplayname=[Wellness]) #### Related Services - [Walk-In Care - Northeast Medical Group](https://www.northeastmedicalgroup.org/services/walk-in-care-immediate-care) - [Cold & Flu Urgent Care Treatment - Yale New Haven Health System](https://www.ynhhs.org/urgent-care/services/cold-and-flu) - [Urgent Care for Bronchitis in Connecticut & New York - Yale New Haven Health System](https://www.ynhhs.org/urgent-care/services/bronchitis) ## Related Articles [![Thema Graves](https://www.ynhhs.org/-/media/Images/Articles/2026/Thema.ashx) Patient Stories “The Energy of the Team Is Very Important”: How Rehabilitation Can Help Stroke Survivors Heal](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/rehabilitation-after-stroke) [![a family walking in the woods](https://www.ynhhs.org/-/media/Images/Articles/2026/rotker-male-infertility-family.ashx) Patient Stories From Heartache to Joy: One Couple’s Journey From Infertility to Pregnancy](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/journey-from-infertility-to-pregnancy) [![Dave Mortimer](https://www.ynhhs.org/-/media/Images/Articles/2026/DaveMortimerphotoDSC2748.ashx) Patient Stories Surviving a Stroke: “The Care Had Everything To Do With It”](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/lifesaving-thrombectomy-after-stroke) [![Yale New Haven Health logo](https://www.ynhhs.org/-/media/Images/Logo/YNHHS/logoynhh2x.ashx?mh=75&mw=128&hash=D610B41CB188540CD323C7D0702581D7)](https://www.ynhhs.org/) [Bridgeport Hospital](https://www.bridgeporthospital.org/) [Yale New Haven Children's Hospital](https://www.ynhh.org/childrens-hospital) [Greenwich Hospital](https://www.greenwichhospital.org/) [Lawrence + Memorial Hospital](https://www.lmhospital.org/) [Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital](https://www.ynhh.org/psychiatric) [Smilow Cancer Hospital](https://www.ynhh.org/smilow) [Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care](https://www.ynhhs.org/urgent-care) [Westerly Hospital](https://www.westerlyhospital.org/) [Yale New Haven Hospital](https://www.ynhh.org/) [Clinical Affiliates](https://www.ynhhs.org/clinical-affiliates) [Northeast Medical Group](https://www.northeastmedicalgroup.org/) With the greatest of care. *** For Patients [find a location](https://www.ynhhs.org/find-a-location)[Find a Doctor or Specialist](https://www.ynhhs.org/find-a-doctor "Find a doctor or specialist")[Find a job](https://www.ynhhs.org/careers "Find a job")[Log into MyChart](https://mychart.ynhhs.org/)[Pay My Bill](https://mychart.ynhhs.org/MyChart-PRD/)[View news & events]("View news & events")[Become a vendor](https://www.ynhhs.org/vendors "Become a vendor") Find Information For [Providers](https://www.ynhhs.org/providers "Providers")[Job Seekers](https://www.ynhhs.org/careers "Job Seekers")[Employees](http://portal.ynhh.org/)[giving](https://www.ynhhs.org/giving)[Media](https://www.ynhhs.org/news-media "Media")[Vendors](https://www.ynhhs.org/vendors "Vendors")[Manage Cookie Preferences](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/how-to-stop-a-nagging-cough) Contact Us Yale New Haven Health System 789 Howard Avenue New Haven, CT 06519 © Copyright 2026 Yale New Haven Health [Policies](https://www.ynhhs.org/policies "Policies")[For Employees](http://portal.ynhh.org/ "For Employees")[Non-discrimination](https://www.ynhhs.org/policies#nond "For Employees")[Contact Us]("Contact Us")
Readable Markdown	Most symptoms associated with common respiratory illnesses will resolve within a couple of days. Yet the cough that often accompanies colds, flu, COVID and [RSV](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/what-to-know-about-the-new-rsv-vaccines) can linger for weeks. It’s normal for an acute cough to last anywhere from a few days to three to four weeks. Post viral coughing, which is when you generally feel better but still have a cough, can last up to eight weeks. During the height of the winter respiratory season, a lingering cough could also be the sign of a new illness. “If you have fevers, chills, if you are short of breath, are bringing things up when you cough, or you notice that you don’t have the breathing stamina that you used to, this could be a sign of a pneumonia, and you should see a licensed healthcare professional to ensure that there isn’t something beyond a viral cold that is causing your symptoms,” said Melanie Raffoul, MD, chief medical officer, Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care. ## How to stop coughing Treatments for a cough vary because a cough can be caused by many things, not just seasonal viruses. For example, a dry, hacking cough could be caused by allergies, asthma, GERD (reflux), pneumonia, or bronchitis. In children, a [hacking cough](https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/daycare-illnesses) could be the sign of croup, an upper respiratory infection that can be severe. Therefore, patients should not start taking any over-the-counter medication marketed towards cough without consulting a clinician first. “What can be concerning with cough medications is that some are sedative. That can stop you from coughing, but it’s not always safe to stop your urge to cough, and some can raise your blood pressure. It’s always important to review any new medications including supplements and over-the-counter medications with a clinician to make sure you’re not missing any side effects or potentially dangerous combinations,” said Dr. Raffoul. Those looking for relief can try other options first. These can include: - Starting with humidification: Sit in a steamy room or sauna. - Saltwater gargling is valuable for treating postnasal drip, which causes cough. - If you don’t have an allergy to honey, honey can be used as a natural cough suppressant. Honey should only be given to those over 1, and always consult your pediatrician before giving a child honey. - Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids. While many coughs go away eventually with at home remedies, others warrant the use of an antibiotic such as strep throat, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. Anytime kids or babies have a cough, always ask your pediatrician for guidance. Humidification and hydration are important for young patients too, but over-the-counter cough medicines are not recommended and can be dangerous. ## When to go to urgent care Some warning signs to seek medical care right away include shortness of breath and coughing up dark colored mucus. Even if you are generally feeling OK, but don’t feel 100%, it doesn’t hurt to get an evaluation. Find a Walk-In or [Urgent Care location](https://www.ynhhs.org/urgent-care) near you.
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