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QUIZ: Learn how to dodge a cough this winter

Test your knowledge and learn how to best treat a cough.

AS WE ENTER the coldest months of the year, avoiding a winter chill is at the top of our minds.

We’ve all been frustrated by a cough that we just couldn’t shake, sidelining us for a couple of weeks. This is the time of year when we are most susceptible to illness due to colder weather and increased times indoors leading to a higher likelihood of catching something.

youngillwomaninbedathome A cough could ruin your plans this winter. Shutterstock Shutterstock

However, it’s not always easy to avoid catching something, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you start developing a cough. If you do feel a bit under the weather, treating the cough and getting rid of all symptoms so you can go back to normal life will be high on your priority list. 

Thankfully, there are many ways to treat your cough. Hot drinks, particularly lemon and honey, plenty of rest and lots of water can help you feel better. Over the counter medicine at your local pharmacy is more effective and can help speed up your recovery. Always ask a pharmacist for advice, especially if you are treating young children. 

According to research*, the majority of Irish people look to treat symptoms of cough within three days, showing our low tolerance for illness. Interestingly, Covid cough etiquette has maintained since the end of the pandemic, which hopefully may mean less chance of you catching something this winter.

Whilst we all know some tidbits about the coughs that follow us around in wintertime, we’ve put together a quiz that will test your knowledge and hopefully improve it as well. 

 

What is one of the first signs of a cough?
Snoring
Sore throat

Headache
What common symptoms often come with a cough (more than one option is correct)?
Runny nose
Fever

Sore throat
Earache

Blurred vision
General aches and pains
Most (but not all) coughs are caused by viruses, will an antibiotic help treat this kind of cough?
Yes
No
Which hot drink is better for treating a cough?
Black coffee
Hot lemon with honey
How long does a cough last on average according to the HSE?
1 month
1 week

3 weeks
Which medical professional should you first visit to treat a cough?
Doctor
Pharmacist
How many types of cough are there?
One
Two

More than two.
What are good ways to treat a cough (more than one option is correct)?
Over the counter medicine
Ignore it

Rest and plenty of fluids
Answer all the questions to see your result!
You scored out of !
Well done! You know a lot about coughs!
Share your result:
You scored out of !
You know a bit but you can still learn more!
Share your result:
You scored out of !
Not bad, but you can learn a bit more!
Share your result:

*Consumer research on cough, cold & flu was conducted by Coyne Research for Perrigo in April 2023

Struggling with cough? Always ask your pharmacist for advice.

New Broncho 5 in 1 Multi-Symptom Action Syrup to relieve all coughs associated with a cold including dry cough, chesty cough, sore throat, hoarseness and throat dryness. A medical device which contains Marshmallow, Icelandic Moss, Xanthan Gum and Hyaluronic Acid. Use in children under 12 years of age is not recommended. Always read the leaflet. 

For more information about coughs, talk to your pharmacist or visit Lloyds Pharmacy today.

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