Cough: Information for patients and carers

This advice is sourced from Dr Ros Taylor a senior palliative physician

What causes a cough in advanced illness?

There may be a treatable cause of a cough which is unrelated to someone's terminal illness. For example:

  • Chest infection
  • Allergy
  • Acid reflux
  • Underlying lung disease e.g. COPD or asthma
  • Swallowing food/liquid into the airways (aspiration)
What simple measures can patients and carers use to try and improve a cough?

Use simple measures first e.g. steam inhalations or taking honey 

A saline nebuliser can be helpful - ask your GP or pharmacist

If possible avoid lying on your back because this makes coughing ineffective

When does coughing require medical help?

If a cough is not responding to simple measures and disturbing sleep

Coughing up blood 

Signs of a chest infection - such as coughing up green sputum/ or have a high temperature

Becoming more breathless

If there is a cough right at the end of life please see this page which explains the normal changes in breathing that occur at this stage.

 

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