Cough
A reflex action that clears the airways, which can be acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting more than eight weeks).
⚠ Seek medical attention if:
Coughing up blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, high fever, unintentional weight loss, cough lasting beyond eight weeks
Lifestyle factors
Smoking, dry air, dust or allergen exposure, eating large meals late or lying down soon after eating, dehydration
Nutritional factors
Inadequate hydration thickening mucus, vitamin D insufficiency linked to greater respiratory infection susceptibility
Possible medical causes
Common cold or viral infection, asthma, acid reflux, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, medication side effect
Next steps
Seek urgent care for coughing blood or breathing difficulty; GP review if cough persists beyond three weeks or red flags are present
Related nutrients (1)
Vitamin D insufficiency is linked to increased susceptibility to respiratory infections
Food sources: Salmon (grilled) (~570 IU (14 mcg) vitamin D per 100g grilled fillet), Eggs (whole, boiled) (~41 IU (1 mcg) vitamin D per egg, mostly in the yolk), Fortified oat milk (~100 IU (2.5 mcg) vitamin D per cup, fortified)
Supplement categories (3)
May support immune resilience against respiratory infections in those who are deficient
Cautions: Avoid doses >4000 IU/day without testing; caution in sarcoidosis, granulomatous conditions
May modestly reduce cold and flu symptom duration when started early
Cautions: Choose reputable brands using properly processed extract; discontinue if used for more than a few days without symptom improvement
Supports general immune function during respiratory infections
Cautions: Caution in people prone to kidney stones due to an oxalate metabolite
Related symptoms
Educational information only — not medical advice. This content does not diagnose, treat, or replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek professional medical advice for symptoms, supplement use, or health concerns.