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A member asked:
I developed a mild cough with phlegm, it's been a week and getting better. about how long do coughs last? the phlegm is white not very thick.wat 2take
2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
2 weeks, +/- a week: A doctor can evaluate, if more than 2 weeks, or if worried. Cough medicines are for decreasing the urge to cough, due to tickling, mucus, or mild irritation in the throat. Coughing is normal when there is mucus lower in the throat, or coming from the lungs (otherwise, mucus might stay down there). Menthol lozenges +/- anesthetic in the lozenge can help. Robitussin DM (guaifenesin and dextromethorphan) +/- "cold medicines" can help.
Answered 8/26/2015
2.4k views
Cough duration: a cough from simple bronchitis can last anywhere from a few days to a couple months. Most last a week or so and resolve. Coughs lasting longer than 2 months need more evaluation and treatment.
Answered 2/15/2017
2.4k views
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