Ashford Clinic Blog
Why Am I Coughing in the Summer?
Summer isn’t the season that springs to mind when you think of coughing, and many people tend to get a break from allergies and colds. However, there are conditions that can lead to respiratory issues for some.
Higher temperatures can come with high humidity, and that can mean perfect conditions for irritants such as mold spores and dust mites. They thrive in warm, damp conditions. Even inside an air-conditioned home, condensation drips from air conditioning systems can cause mold growth if there’s no place for the water to go. Good air circulation is important, and dehumidifiers can help reduce humidity levels inside.
Even if mold and dust mites aren’t an issue, you can still end up with an irritated throat from being inside. Air conditioning can also dry out your respiratory system, causing irritation.
Dry heat can also irritate sensitive respiratory tissues, especially when you add dust and pollutants to the mix. It’s important to make sure that you stay hydrated and drink plenty of water when temperatures are higher and humidity levels are low.
Despite the warm, sunny weather that cough could also just end up being a cold. Viruses can be spread no matter what time of year it is. Identifying whether you have a cold usually comes down to the following symptoms:
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Headache
The good news though is that a cold will usually clear up in about a week, and you can typically treat the symptoms with over-the-counter medications.
The best way to treat a summer cough is to know why you’re coughing in the first place. If you aren’t sure, see your doctor to rule out a cold or test for allergies. They can also prescribe the best treatment plan for that pesky summer cough and let you get back to enjoying your summer.
