Heal · Care

A cough is a symptom. The work is finding what is driving it.

Most coughs follow viral infections, but duration, breathing, fever, lung findings, medications, reflux, and other clues can change the plan. We evaluate the cause and use antibiotics only when they are likely to help.

Written and medically reviewed by Gevorg Sedrakyan, MD Published August 20, 2026 Last reviewed August 20, 2026

I. What we address

The clinical question, made specific.

What this visit includes

Lung and upper-airway examination
Testing for common infections when appropriate
Assessment for pneumonia, asthma, reflux, and other causes
Treatment and a timeline for reassessment

Reasons to come in

New cough with fever or fatigue
Cough that is worsening or lingering
Wheezing or chest tightness without severe distress
Concern for bronchitis or another respiratory infection

II. The visit

Three steps. No lost thread.

We assess duration, exposures, breathing, and associated symptoms.

Your clinician listens to the lungs and decides whether testing or imaging is needed.

You receive symptom treatment, return precautions, and follow-up for persistent cough.

III. Questions

What patients usually ask.

Does bronchitis require an antibiotic?

Most acute bronchitis is viral and does not improve with antibiotics. Treatment changes when the examination or testing suggests bacterial infection or another diagnosis.

How long is too long for a cough?

A cough lasting more than several weeks, repeatedly returning, producing blood, or occurring with weight loss or breathing difficulty deserves evaluation.

When is a cough an emergency?

Call 911 for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, confusion, fainting, or significant chest pain.

Where it happens