A prolonged cough during the winter season has become a common yet troubling issue. According to medical experts, the major reasons include dry and cold air, increasing air pollution, and some unhealthy daily habits, due to which a cough can persist for weeks or even months.
Experts say that when the temperature falls below 10 degrees Celsius, cold and dry air constricts the airways, increasing inflammation and weakening the immune system. A cough that develops after flu or a cold can last from three to eight weeks.
Research shows that a decrease of just five degrees in nasal temperature can reduce virus fighting immune cells by nearly 50 percent, while air pollution further worsens the situation.
During winter, due to temperature inversion, pollution particles become trapped in the atmosphere, causing the Air Quality Index to rise to dangerous levels. Spending more time indoors allows viruses such as flu and RSV to spread rapidly. Doctors say that certain daily habits also delay recovery from cough. Smoking dries out the airways and makes it difficult to expel mucus, while inhaling smoke is also harmful.
According to medical experts, drinking less water in winter thickens mucus, and getting less than seven hours of sleep further weakens the immune system.
Experts have suggested adopting a few simple habits for quick relief from cough. Medical specialists say that drinking three to four liters of lukewarm water or beverages daily, quitting smoking, getting seven to nine hours of proper sleep, and consuming a diet including ginger, turmeric, garlic, and fresh fruits can be beneficial.
Using a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity at around 40 percent during winter also proves helpful.
As precautionary measures, experts emphasize getting a flu vaccine, wearing an N95 mask on highly polluted days, and maintaining proper ventilation at home.
Medical experts advise that if a cough lasts more than three weeks or is accompanied by fever and difficulty in breathing, one should consult a doctor immediately.
