Cough

Question 1

Cough - key symptoms (4)

Answer 1

Coughing
Dry tickly throat
Sputum
Pain in throat

Question 2

Cough - extra questions (5)

Answer 2

How long for
Breathing affected
Respiratory conditions (asthma, COPD)
Medication (ACEis)
Sputum colour

Question 3

Cough - first-line OTC treatment (1)

Answer 3

Simple analgesia

Question 4

Cough - cough syrups (product, drug, how it works, dose) (2)

Answer 4

Benylin (both, 10mL QDS, 6+)
Chesty (guaifenesin) - expectorant
Dry (sucrose/glycerin) - soothes throat
Not routinely recommended, no evidence for being more effective than honey + lemon

Question 5

Cough - lifestyle (7)

Answer 5

Rest
Plenty of water - 8 glasses
Stay home is fever or particularly unwell
Regularly wash hands with warm soapy water
Honey and lemon drink, warm not hot
Avoid food triggers (rough, spicy)
Avoid irritants (perfume, candles)

Question 6

Cough - referral (5)

Answer 6

3 weeks +
Impaired breathing
Immunocompromised
Medicine induced (ACEis)
Symptoms of chest infection needing abx (green sputum, fever)