Description

As cold and flu season ramps up, coughs and breathing concerns are one of the most common reasons people seek medical care. In this episode, Dr. Shazma Mithani and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe break down how to think about coughs during respiratory season, when antibiotics are helpful, and how to manage symptoms safely while your body recovers.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why most coughs during cold and flu season are not treated with antibiotics
• Situations where antibiotics may be appropriate
• Red flags that should prompt medical assessment
• How long post-viral coughs can realistically last
• Practical, evidence-based ways to manage cough and chest symptoms at home
• Special considerations for children and over-the-counter cough medications
• Wheezing, chest tightness, and when breathing symptoms need urgent care
• Other common non-infectious causes of persistent cough

Teaching Corner (Health-Care Providers & Learners):

• Antibiotic stewardship and expectation-setting in patients with acute cough
• Identifying red flags and higher-risk patients early
• Framing supportive care as active clinical management

Disclaimer

This podcast is for general information purposes only and does not replace medical advice from your own healthcare provider. While we are doctors, we are not your doctor. Always speak with your healthcare provider about your personal health needs.

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