Tips to help you manage a long-lasting cough

A cough that hangs around for more than 8 weeks can wear you down. Not just your body, but your spirit too. Make sure you have a yarn with your doctor or health worker. These tips can support the treatment they give you. 

This factsheet from the Lung Foundation Australia aims to share some tips to help you manage your long-lasting cough. The practical and evidence‑based tips in the factsheet is meant to be used alongside the treatment you GP gives you. It’s still important to first get the advice and treatment plan from your GP. 

Things you can try: 

• Breathe through your nose to keep your throat calm 

• Use a small hand-held fan on your face when a cough starts 

• Cover your mouth and nose in cold weather 

• Sip water often (every 15–30 minutes) 

• Try steam inhalation (like a warm shower) 

• Suck on menthol or honey lozenges 

• Yarn with your GP about natural options like ginger or honey 

• Swallow gently when you feel a tickle 

• Learn breathing exercises to settle your cough 

Things to avoid: 

• Dust, smoke, chemicals, and very hot or cold air 

• Smoking or vaping 

• Too much coffee or alcohol – they can dry out your throat 

• Talking for long periods without resting your voice 

Stress and worry can make coughing worse. This factsheet offers calming strategies to try such as slow breathing, and mindfulness. also includes a stop cough technique that you can practice. Join a support group or reach out to free counselling services to protect your spirit. 

Everyone is different, so managing your cough might take a few different steps. Start by following the treatment your doctor gives you. Then you can add other simple things, like looking after your feelings, using easy self‑help tips, and trying other therapies. When you use these together, you can feel more confident and more in control of your cough. These steps give you the tools to help you manage your symptoms.