If you have been dealing with a cough that won't go away, you aren't alone.  It's a common symptom that is going around as upper respiratory illness rates go up including colds, flu, and RSV.  If you overcame a virus and treated the symptoms with antibiotics, but the cough won't go away you are not alone.  Dr. Juanbosco Ayala, a pulmonologist with OSF Healthcare in the Intensive Care Unit at OSF in Evergreen Park says that he sees problems like this especially people who have breathing disorders and lung disease. 

Antihistamines can include Claritin-D, Benadryl, Allegra, and others.  They can be found over the counter, and don't necessarily require a prescription.  For many, colder temperatures can bring mucus and Dr. Ayala says Mucinex may be a good choice for that. 

He recommends keeping a close eye on symptoms.  Controlling your symptoms can keep you away from the hospital.  

If you have symptoms such as a cough or throat, Dr. Ayala encourages you to take a COVID test, and treat your symptoms at home with OTC medication.  If symptoms have not gotten better after 10 days, if you are having problems breathing, or if you have a preexisting condition like diabetes, asthma, or COPD you should go to the doctor.  Also keep an eye on the back of your throat.  If you see white spots, this is a clear sign of an infection.  

Above all else, wash your hands, cover your cough, and stay home if sick.