Introduction

A cough is a reflex action to clear your airways of mucus and irritants such as dust or smoke.It's rarely a sign of anything serious. A "dry cough" means it's tickly and doesn't produce any phlegm (thick mucus). A "chesty cough" means phlegm is produced to help clear your airways. Most coughs clear up within three weeks and don't require any treatment. For more persistent coughs, it's a good idea to see your GP so they can investigate the cause.
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