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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Brent North Community Palliative Care Team - based at St Luke's
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Brent North Community Palliative Care Team - based at St Luke's

T. 020 8382 8013

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Referral form for clinician use only.

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Brent South Community Palliative Care Team - based at Pembridge Hospice
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Brent South Community Palliative Care Team - based at Pembridge Hospice

T. 020 8102 5000

South Brent Community Specialist Palliative Care Nurse Team provides advice and visiting to palliative care patients in South Brent. The team are based at Pembridge Hospice

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