Acute respiratory infections contribute significantly to outpatient visits in India, according to the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW). Viral upper respiratory infections commonly present as cough and cold symptoms in urban populations.

Delhi records seasonal pollution peaks that correlate with increased respiratory irritation and cough complaints, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

This guide explains structured cough treatment in Delhi, cold treatment pathways, severe cough escalation criteria, diagnostic testing, specialist referral, and pollution-related risk factors.

Causes of Cough and Cold in Delhi

• Viral infections remain the primary cause of acute cough and common cold, according to WHO. Rhinoviruses and influenza viruses frequently trigger symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion, mild fever, and cough.
• ICMR recommends evaluation when cough persists beyond 2–3 weeks, as prolonged symptoms may indicate bacterial infection or chronic disease.
• CPCB reports elevated PM2.5 levels in Delhi during winter months. Airborne particulate matter irritates airway lining and increases cough frequency.
• Environmental allergens such as dust, pollen, and construction debris trigger allergic cough without fever.
• Chronic conditions including asthma, COPD, tuberculosis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease contribute to persistent cough presentations.

Cough Treatment in Delhi

WHO states that most acute cough cases are viral and do not require antibiotics. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and monitoring. Dry cough treatment targets airway irritation and allergy control. Physicians prescribe antitussives only when cough disrupts sleep or daily function. Wet cough management focuses on mucus clearance. Doctors may prescribe expectorants or mucolytics after clinical evaluation.

ICMR advises diagnostic evaluation if cough lasts longer than 2–3 weeks. CPCB confirms that high PM2.5 exposure worsens respiratory symptoms. Patients should reduce outdoor exposure during high AQI days.

Red-flag symptoms requiring escalation include:

• Cough lasting more than three weeks
• Blood in sputum
• High fever
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

Cold Treatment in Delhi

• WHO states that the common cold usually resolves within 7–10 days with supportive care. MoHFW recommends hydration, rest, and symptom monitoring for uncomplicated viral respiratory infections.
• Fever management involves antipyretics when temperature rises significantly.
• Saline nasal drops reduce congestion and improve nasal airflow.
• ICMR advises evaluation if symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen after initial improvement.
• Escalation indicators include facial pain, ear pain, severe headache, or breathing difficulty.

Severe Cough Treatment in Delhi

ICMR recommends clinical evaluation when cough persists beyond 2–3 weeks.  AIIMS advises specialist referral for hemoptysis, respiratory distress, or chronic persistent cough.

Clinical evaluation includes:

• Detailed symptom history
• Pollution and smoking exposure history
• Physical examination

Diagnostic testing may include:

1. Chest X-ray
2. CBC
3. Sputum analysis
4. Spirometry
5. CT scan when indicated

WHO states antibiotics should be reserved for confirmed bacterial infections.  Emergency symptoms include severe breathlessness, oxygen desaturation, altered consciousness, and persistent high fever.

When to Consult a Doctor for Cough in Delhi

AIIMS identifies red flags including hemoptysis, persistent fever, and respiratory distress.

High-risk groups include:

• Children under five
• Elderly individuals
• Pregnant women
• Chronic lung disease patients
• Immunocompromised individuals

CPCB reports high pollution exposure increases respiratory symptom severity. Worsening cough during high AQI periods requires evaluation.

Severe Cough Specialist in Delhi

1. AIIMS recommends referral to a specialist for chronic or severe cough.
2. Pulmonologists evaluate asthma, COPD, tuberculosis, pneumonia, and chronic lung disease.
3. ENT specialists assess upper airway causes such as sinusitis or post-nasal drip.
4. Chest physicians manage complex infections and advanced respiratory conditions.

Cough Risk Factors in Delhi

1. CPCB links elevated PM2.5 exposure with increased respiratory symptoms.
2. Smoking damages airway lining and increases chronic cough risk.
3. Repeated respiratory infections increase airway sensitivity.
4. Chronic lung diseases raise risk of prolonged cough episodes.
5. Seasonal smog and dust exposure increase irritation.

Pollution-Related Cough in Delhi

CPCB reports that high AQI levels correlate with increased respiratory complaints.  PM2.5 particles penetrate deep into lung tissue and trigger inflammatory response.

Symptoms include dry cough, throat irritation, and chest tightness without fever.

Preventive measures include:

• Checking daily AQI
• Limiting outdoor exposure during high pollution
• Using certified masks
• Using indoor air purification

Diagnostic Tests for Persistent Cough in Delhi

1. Chest X-ray detects pneumonia, tuberculosis, or lung abnormalities.
2. CBC evaluates infection markers.
3. Sputum testing identifies bacterial infection or tuberculosis.
4. Spirometry measures lung function in suspected asthma or COPD.
5. CT scan provides detailed imaging when initial tests are inconclusive.

Cough Home Remedies in Delhi

WHO states most acute cough cases resolve with supportive care.

1. Steam inhalation helps loosen mucus.
2. Saltwater gargle reduces throat irritation.
3. Adequate hydration maintains mucus fluidity.
4. Honey may soothe throat irritation. Do not give honey to children under one year.
5. CPCB advises reducing pollution exposure during high AQI days.

Cold Home Remedies in Delhi

WHO confirms that the common cold is self-limiting.

1. Rest supports immune recovery.
2. Warm fluids relieve throat irritation.
3. Saline nasal irrigation reduces congestion.
4. ICMR recommends medical evaluation if symptoms persist beyond 10 days.

Gandhi Hospital, Delhi

Patients experiencing persistent cough, high fever, breathlessness, chest pain, or blood in sputum should seek medical attention. Gandhi Hospital in Uttam Nagar Delhi provides structured evaluation for cough and cold, diagnostic testing, and specialist consultation.

Book consultation if symptoms persist or worsen.