Increase in whooping cough cases: Doctors explain.

Tamil Nadu: Recently, there has been a surge in the number of people suffering from post-viral cough across Tamil Nadu.

Many people are visiting hospitals for coughs that persist for weeks even after recovering from a cold and flu. Following the rains in Tamil Nadu, several districts have been experiencing cooler weather for the past few days. Due to this change in weather, influenza and respiratory illnesses have increased. Consequently, dry cough has become common.

In this regard, Public Health Specialist Dr. Farooq Abdullah said: “When our respiratory system is infected with a virus, it is common to experience a persistent cough for 3 to 8 weeks. 10 to 25 out of every 100 infected people experience this condition. This is called post-viral cough.”

This is caused by inflammation in the respiratory tract due to germs and the overactivity of cough receptors in the respiratory system.

Additionally, sinus inflammation and heartburn in the upper respiratory tract can also cause a persistent cough. Drinking warm water periodically can provide relief from these effects. Drinking hot tea, soup, etc., and consuming lemon juice with honey is also beneficial. You should avoid going to dusty and smoky places. You should quit smoking. You can practice deep breathing exercises.

If you still have a cough with phlegm or blood-tinged sputum, you should consult a doctor. If necessary, an X-ray, sputum test, and blood test may be conducted to determine if you have pneumonia or other complications.

According to the doctor’s advice, bronchodilators and cough suppressants can be taken. Only if the cough persists for more than 8 weeks should proper medical treatment be sought. He added that there is no need to fear the effects of a common cough.