How to Deal with Recurrent Coughs and Colds
If you seem to catch every cold going around, or your cough never quite clears up, you’re not alone. Many people experience recurrent coughs, colds, or sinus infections, especially during the winter months or after viral illnesses.
At Hampshire ENT clinics, we help patients identify why these infections keep returning — and how to break the cycle for good.
🤧 Why Do Coughs and Colds Keep Coming Back?
Most coughs and colds are caused by viruses, and in healthy people they should clear up within one to two weeks. If you’re frequently unwell, there may be an underlying reason, such as:
Chronic sinusitis or nasal blockage
Allergies causing constant inflammation
Postnasal drip irritating the throat
Reflux (silent reflux) leading to persistent cough
Environmental irritants such as smoke, dust, or pollution
Weakened immune system or poor sleep and nutrition
🩺 When to See a Specialist
You should seek ENT advice if you have:
A cough lasting longer than 3 weeks
Four or more sinus or chest infections per year
Constant nasal blockage or postnasal drip
Repeated sore throats or ear infections
Voice changes or throat discomfort that doesn’t settle
A simple assessment, nasal endoscopy, or sinus scan can often reveal the cause.
💡 How Hampshire ENT Clinics Can Help
Our team provides a full range of investigations and treatments for recurrent upper airway infections, including:
1. Addressing Nasal and Sinus Problems
Nasal steroid sprays and saline rinses to reduce inflammation
Allergy testing and management if triggers are identified
Endoscopic sinus surgery for patients with chronic sinus blockage
Clarifix® cryotherapy or turbinoplasty for chronic nasal drip or congestion
2. Treating Postnasal Drip and Reflux
Lifestyle and dietary advice for reflux-related cough
Targeted medications to reduce throat irritation
3. Supporting Immune Health
Checking for underlying medical conditions
Advice on hydration, sleep, and nutrition
Preventive measures such as flu vaccination where appropriate
🌟 The Goal: Fewer Infections, Better Breathing
By addressing the root causes — rather than just treating each cold — most patients notice:
Fewer episodes of infection
Improved nasal breathing
Less throat irritation and coughing
Better sleep and overall wellbeing
📍 Local Expertise in Hampshire
At Hampshire ENT clinics, we combine modern diagnostics with evidence-based treatments to help patients across Portsmouth, Winchester & Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region overcome persistent coughs, colds, and sinus problems.
👉 If you’re struggling with frequent infections or a cough that won’t go away, contact Hampshire ENT clinics for an expert assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Recurrent Coughs, Colds and Infections
Is it normal to catch lots of colds each year?
Most adults catch 2–4 colds per year. If you are getting infections far more frequently, or symptoms linger for weeks, there is often an underlying ENT-related cause that can be addressed.
Why does my cough last so long after a cold?
A cough that persists after a viral illness is often due to:
Postnasal drip from ongoing nasal or sinus inflammation
Irritation of the throat lining
Silent reflux (laryngopharyngeal reflux)
Residual airway sensitivity after infection
This is common, but should improve with targeted treatment.
Can sinus problems cause repeated coughs and colds?
Yes. Chronic sinusitis, nasal blockage, or poor sinus drainage can lead to:
Recurrent infections
Persistent mucus and postnasal drip
Chronic throat clearing and cough
Treating the nasal and sinus inflammation often breaks the cycle.
Do allergies make infections more frequent?
Yes. Allergic rhinitis causes constant inflammation of the nasal lining, which:
Reduces normal defence mechanisms
Makes viral infections more likely
Prolongs recovery after colds
Identifying and treating allergies can significantly reduce symptoms.
When should I see an ENT specialist?
You should seek ENT assessment if you have:
A cough lasting more than 3 weeks
Four or more sinus or chest infections per year
Constant nasal blockage or postnasal drip
Recurrent sore throats or ear infections
Voice changes or throat discomfort that does not settle
What tests might be needed?
Assessment may include:
Consultant ENT examination
Nasal endoscopy (camera assessment of the nose and sinuses)
Imaging such as a CT sinus scan (if indicated)
Assessment for reflux or allergy-related inflammation
Not everyone needs scans — investigations are tailored to symptoms.
Do recurrent infections mean my immune system is weak?
Usually not. Most people with frequent coughs and colds have:
Ongoing nasal or sinus inflammation
Reflux-related throat irritation
Environmental or lifestyle factors
True immune deficiency is uncommon but can be assessed if suspected.
How are recurrent coughs and colds treated?
Treatment focuses on the cause and may include:
Nasal steroid sprays and saline rinses
Allergy management
Treatment for postnasal drip or reflux
Procedures such as turbinoplasty, Clarifix® cryotherapy, or sinus surgery in selected cases
Can treating the nose really help my cough?
Yes. The nose, sinuses and throat are closely linked. Improving nasal airflow and reducing mucus often leads to a significant reduction in cough frequency and severity.
Where can I be assessed?
Consultant-led assessment and treatment are available at Hampshire ENT Clinics, serving patients across Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury and the wider Hampshire region.