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Feb 26, 2025|Coughing

🫢Understanding and Managing Coughs: Tips from 45 Urgent Care

As we transition through cold and flu season, many of us are dealing with persistent coughs that won’t seem to go away. At 45 Urgent Care in Jackson, TN we understand how disruptive a lingering cough can be to your daily routine. But how do you know when a cough requires urgent care—and when it’s serious enough for the emergency room? Let’s break it down.

Understanding Coughs

A cough is a natural reflex that helps clear mucus, dust, or irritants from your airways. While most coughs resolve on their own, they can sometimes signal an underlying issue like infections, allergies, acid reflux (GERD), or even more serious conditions.

🏥When to Visit an Urgent Care Clinic

You should visit urgent care if you have:

  • A cough lasting more than three weeks without improvement.
  • Mild to moderate shortness of breath or wheezing.
  • Green, yellow, or bloody mucus when coughing.
  • A low-grade fever (under 102°F) that isn’t going away.
  • A worsening cough despite home treatments or OTC medications.

At 45 Urgent Care, our providers can assess your symptoms, run necessary tests, and provide treatment to help you feel better fast.

🚨When to Go to the Emergency Room

Seek emergency care immediately if you experience:

  • Severe shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
  • High fever (102°F or higher) with confusion or extreme fatigue.
  • Chest pain or pressure when coughing or breathing.
  • Coughing up large amounts of blood.
  • Blue lips, skin, or fingernails, which can indicate low oxygen levels.

These symptoms could signal a serious condition like pneumonia, a severe respiratory infection, or even a heart-related issue. In these cases, the ER is the safest option.

🏡At-Home Remedies for Mild Coughs

If your cough is mild and not worsening, try these remedies:

  • Drink plenty of fluids – Staying hydrated helps thin mucus.
  • Use a humidifier – Moist air can soothe dry, irritated airways.
  • Try honey and herbal teas – These can naturally ease throat irritation.
  • Avoid smoke and strong odors – Irritants can make your cough worse.

For lingering or worsening coughs, don’t wait—visit 45 Urgent Care for expert evaluation and treatment. We offer both in-office and virtual appointments to fit your schedule.

Stay healthy, and take care this season!

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