DM Cough Medicine: Uses, Side Effects, and Precautions

23.09.202302.07.2023 by alexxlab

What is DM cough medicine. How does it work. What are the recommended dosages. Who should avoid taking this medication. What are the potential side effects. What precautions should be taken when using DM cough medicine.

Содержание

Understanding DM Cough Medicine: Mechanism of Action and Uses

DM cough medicine, also known as dextromethorphan, is a widely used over-the-counter medication for suppressing dry, hacking coughs. It belongs to a class of drugs called antitussives, which work by affecting the cough center in the brain to reduce the urge to cough.

How does DM cough medicine work in the body? Dextromethorphan acts on certain receptors in the brain, specifically the sigma-1 and NMDA receptors, to decrease the sensitivity of the cough reflex. This action helps to control coughing associated with various conditions, including:

The common cold
Influenza (flu)
Bronchitis
Inhaled irritants

Is DM cough medicine effective for all types of coughs? While dextromethorphan is particularly useful for dry, non-productive coughs, it may not be as effective for coughs that produce mucus or phlegm. In such cases, an expectorant medication might be more appropriate.

Proper Dosage and Administration of DM Cough Medicine

Determining the correct dosage of DM cough medicine is crucial for its effectiveness and safety. The recommended dosage varies depending on age and the specific formulation of the medication.

Adult Dosage Guidelines

For adults, the typical recommended dosage of dextromethorphan is:

10 mg to 20 mg taken orally every 4 hours, or
30 mg taken orally every 6 to 8 hours

It’s important to note that the maximum daily dose for adults should not exceed 120 mg.

Pediatric Dosage Guidelines

For children between 6 and 11 years of age, the recommended dosage is:

5 mg to 10 mg taken orally every 4 hours, or
15 mg taken orally every 6 to 8 hours

The maximum daily dose for children in this age group is 60 mg.

Can DM cough medicine be given to children under 6 years old? It’s crucial to understand that dextromethorphan is not recommended for children under the age of 6 years. Parents should consult a pediatrician for appropriate cough remedies for younger children.

Administration Tips

To ensure proper administration of DM cough medicine:

Read the label carefully and follow the instructions precisely.
Use an oral syringe for liquid formulations to ensure accurate dosing.
The medication can be taken with or without food.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next dose.
Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Potential Side Effects and Risks of DM Cough Medicine

While DM cough medicine is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Understanding these potential adverse reactions is essential for safe usage.

Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects of dextromethorphan include:

Dizziness
Drowsiness
Nausea
Constipation
Mild confusion

Are these side effects typically severe? In most cases, these side effects are mild and resolve on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Serious Side Effects

Although rare, some individuals may experience more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention:

Severe allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat)
Slowed or decreased breathing
Severe confusion or hallucinations
Irregular heartbeat

If any of these serious side effects occur, it’s crucial to stop taking the medication and seek emergency medical care.

Contraindications and Precautions for DM Cough Medicine Use

Certain individuals should avoid using DM cough medicine due to potential risks or interactions with other medications or health conditions.

Who Should Not Take DM Cough Medicine?

Dextromethorphan is contraindicated for:

Individuals allergic to dextromethorphan or any of its ingredients
People taking MAO inhibitors or who have taken them in the previous two weeks
Those with respiratory depression (abnormally slow breathing rate)
Children under 6 years of age

Precautions for Special Populations

Extra caution should be exercised when considering DM cough medicine for certain groups:

Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Consult a healthcare provider before use
Elderly individuals: May be more sensitive to side effects
People with liver or kidney disease: May require dosage adjustments
Individuals with a history of substance abuse: Potential for misuse exists

Why is it important to inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you’re taking? Some medications, herbs, or supplements can interact with dextromethorphan, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Drug Interactions with DM Cough Medicine

Understanding potential drug interactions is crucial for safe use of DM cough medicine. Certain medications can interact with dextromethorphan, leading to increased side effects or reduced effectiveness.

MAO Inhibitors

The most significant interaction occurs with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), a class of antidepressants. Using dextromethorphan with MAOIs or within two weeks of stopping an MAOI can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening reactions.

Other Notable Interactions

DM cough medicine may also interact with:

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Certain antipsychotic medications
Some antihistamines
Alcohol

How can these interactions affect the body? These interactions may lead to increased drowsiness, confusion, or in severe cases, a condition called serotonin syndrome, characterized by agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, and fever.

Proper Storage and Disposal of DM Cough Medicine

Correct storage and disposal of DM cough medicine are essential for maintaining its effectiveness and preventing accidental ingestion or misuse.

Storage Guidelines

To properly store dextromethorphan:

Keep at room temperature
Protect from light and moisture
Store out of reach of children and pets
Keep in its original container with the label intact

Disposal Methods

When disposing of expired or unused DM cough medicine:

Do not flush down the toilet or sink
Do not throw in household garbage
Use a medication take-back program if available
Mix with undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds) and place in a sealed plastic bag before disposing in household trash

Why is proper disposal important? Correct disposal methods help prevent environmental contamination and reduce the risk of accidental ingestion by children or pets.

When to Seek Medical Advice While Using DM Cough Medicine

While DM cough medicine is generally safe for short-term use, there are situations where medical advice should be sought promptly.

Persistent or Worsening Symptoms

Consult a healthcare provider if:

Cough persists for more than 7 days
Cough is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache
Cough produces thick, yellow-green phlegm

Signs of Overdose or Adverse Reaction

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Severe dizziness or confusion
Difficulty breathing
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Severe nausea or vomiting
Hallucinations or extreme agitation

Can DM cough medicine cause dependency or addiction? While rare, there have been reports of dextromethorphan abuse, particularly among adolescents. If you suspect misuse or dependency, it’s crucial to seek professional help immediately.

In conclusion, DM cough medicine can be an effective treatment for suppressing dry coughs when used correctly. However, it’s essential to follow dosage instructions, be aware of potential side effects and interactions, and seek medical advice when necessary. Always consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any concerns about using dextromethorphan or if your symptoms persist or worsen.

Cough Syrup DM – Uses, Side Effects, Interactions

How does this medication work? What will it do for me?

Dextromethorphan belongs to a group of medications called antitussives (cough suppressants). This medication works by suppressing dry, hacking coughs. It is usually used for a short term to control coughing associated with the flu, a cold, or due to inhaled irritants.

This medication may be available under multiple brand names and/or in several different forms. Any specific brand name of this medication may not be available in all of the forms or approved for all of the conditions discussed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or pharmacist or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

What form(s) does this medication come in?

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for details.

How should I use this medication?

For adults, the recommended dose of dextromethorphan is 10 mg to 20 mg taken by mouth every 4 hours, or 30 mg taken by mouth every 6 to 8 hours. The maximum daily dose for adults is 120 mg.

For children 6 to 11 years of age, the recommended dose is 5 mg to 10 mg taken by mouth every 4 hours or 15 mg taken by mouth every 6 to 8 hours. The maximum daily dose for children is 60 mg.

This medication is not recommended for children under the age of 6 years.

Dextromethorphan may be taken with food or on an empty stomach.

There are several different strengths of dextromethorphan products available. Make sure you read the label and ask your doctor or pharmacist how much and how often you should take it. It is important that this medication be taken exactly as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist, or as indicated on the product label.

Use an oral syringe to measure each dose of the liquid, as it gives a more accurate measurement than household teaspoons.

This medication is often taken on an “as needed” basis, however if your doctor has suggested you take dextromethorphan regularly and you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

Who should NOT take this medication?

Do not take dextromethorphan if you:

are allergic to dextromethorphan or any ingredients of the medication
are taking MAO inhibitors (e. g., moclobemide, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine) or have taken them in the previous 2 weeks
have respiratory depression (breathing rate below normal)

Do not give this medication to children less than 6 years old.

What side effects are possible with this medication?

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.

The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

confusion
constipation
dizziness
drowsiness
nausea
vomiting

Although most of the side effects listed below don’t happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

blurred vision
excitement
irritability
nervousness

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

signs of an allergic reaction (hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of the face, tongue, or throat)
slowed or decreased breathing

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for this medication?

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

HEALTH CANADA ADVISORY

March 24, 2016

Health Canada has issued new restrictions concerning the use of dextromethorphan. To read the full Health Canada Advisory, visit Health Canada’s web site at www.hc-sc.gc.ca.

Accidental overdose: If you take more than the recommended amount of dextromethorphan, contact your doctor or a local poison control centre immediately.

Medical conditions: Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about using this product if you have serious kidney or liver disease, high blood pressure, heart or thyroid disease, diabetes, asthma, chronic lung disease or shortness of breath, persistent or chronic cough, glaucoma, difficulty urinating due to enlargement of prostate gland, chronic alcoholism, or any other medical condition or are taking medications for depression.

Persistent symptoms: If your cough gets worse, lasts more than 7 days, or tends to recur, or if you are coughing up phlegm or mucus or have a fever for more than 3 days, talk to your doctor.

Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication.

Breast-feeding: It is not known if dextromethorphan passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking this medication, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: This medication should not be used by children under 6 years of age.

Seniors: If you are a senior, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication.

What other drugs could interact with this medication?

There may be an interaction between dextromethorphan and any of the following:

abiraterone acetate
bupropion
cinacalcet
dacomitinib
darunavir
darifenacin
fentanyl
lithium
memantine
meperidine
mirabegron
mirtazapine
monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs; e. g., safinamide, selegiline, tranylcypromine)
peginterferon alfa-2b
St. John’s wort
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g., citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, vortioxetine)
serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs; e.g., desvenlafaxine, duloxetine, venlafaxine)
terbinafine
tipranavir
tramadol
trazodone
tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, clomipramine, desipramine, imipramine)
tryptophan
vilazodone

If you are taking any of these medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

stop taking one of the medications,
change one of the medications to another,
change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/Cough-Syrup-DM

Ingredients, Dosage, and Side Effects

About Robitussin DM: Ingredients, Dosage, and Side Effects

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Medically reviewed by Darren Hein, PharmD — By University of Illinois — Updated on August 4, 2017

Introduction

Robitussin DM is a cough medicine for treating your cold or flu. Here’s what you need to know, including how it works, the forms it comes in, as well as side effects, interactions, and warnings.

Robitussin DM is used to temporarily relieve your cough from minor throat irritation or a cold. It also helps loosen phlegm from chest congestion so that you can cough it up and spit it out.

Robitussin DM comes in a liquid form that you take by mouth. It comes in regular-strength, maximum-strength, sugar-free, and children’s formulations.

Robitussin DM contains two active ingredients: dextromethorphan and guaifenesin.

Dextromethorphan is an antitussive drug used to help relieve constant coughing. It helps stop your cough by decreasing activity in your brain that triggers your impulse to cough. However, it doesn’t treat what triggers your coughing impulse in the first place, such as a cold or throat irritation.

Guaifenesin belongs to a class of drugs called expectorants. These drugs help loosen up and thin phlegm (mucus) in your throat and lungs so that your coughs are more productive. A productive cough will help bring up mucus that is causing chest congestion. This clears your airways, making it easier for you to breathe. Guaifenesin helps relieve chest congestion, but it doesn’t treat the cause of your congestion.

Robitussin DM Peak Cold Cough + Chest Congestion

Each active ingredient in Robitussin DM causes different side effects. These side effects can be more mild. However, some can be serious.

Mild side effects of dextromethorphan

The more mild side effects of dextromethorphan include:

dizziness
lightheadedness
drowsiness
nervousness
restlessness
nausea
vomiting
stomach pain

Side effects are usually not too common when you use Robitussin DM as recommended, but nausea is more common than the others. Taking Robitussin DM with food or milk may help ease nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach. If you have side effects and they become bothersome, stop taking Robitussin DM and ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend another product.

Mild side effects of guaifenesin

The more mild side effects of guaifenesin include:

headache
nausea
vomiting

These side effects are usually rare. However, they’re more likely if you use more Robitussin DM than recommended. Only mild side effects are associated with guaifenesin. There are no serious side effects associated with it.

Serious side effect of dextromethorphan

A rash may be a serious side effect of dextromethorphan. It can indicate an allergic reaction. If you develop a rash while taking Robitussin DM, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately.

The active ingredients in Robitussin DM can interact with other drugs, vitamins, or herbs you may be taking.

Drugs that can interact with dextromethorphan and guaifenesin include drugs from the monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) class. These drugs treat a variety of psychiatric conditions, including depression and Parkinson’s disease. They include:

isocarboxazid
phenelzine
rasagiline
selegiline
tranylcypromine

To help avoid interactions, be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, or herbs you’re taking. To find out how this drug might interact with something else you’re taking, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Robitussin DM is sometimes misused to experience a high known as “robo-tripping.” This misuse is very dangerous because it often leads to overdose. Dextromethorphan overdose can cause:

confusion
giddiness
slow breathing
nausea
vomiting
agitation
nervousness
restlessness
unsteadiness
dizziness
vision changes
shortness of breath
fast heart rate
hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that do not exist)
seizures
coma

In cases of overdose, call your local poison control center. If the overdose causes seizures or coma, call 911.

Talk to your doctor before using Robitussin DM if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to do either. You may need to choose between breastfeeding and taking this medication. It’s also not known if the active ingredients in Robitussin DM could be harmful to your pregnancy. Your doctor may recommend lowered doses or other options for you.

Robitussin DM may be the drug to help ease your chest congestion and cough. However, some people may need adjusted dosages or other remedies for their coughs.

For example, dextromethorphan can increase the risk of drowsiness in older people. So, if you’re an older adult, you may need to use a lowered dose of Robitussin DM. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor to find out an appropriate dose.

Also, don’t use Robitussin DM for chest congestion that produces a large amount of phlegm. Excessive phlegm can be a sign of infection and should be treated with other medication. You also shouldn’t use Robitussin DM for coughs related to:

smoking
asthma
chronic bronchitis
emphysema

Talk to your doctor about other remedies for these types of coughs.

Last medically reviewed on August 29, 2016

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Children’s Robitussin Cough and Chest Congestion DM- dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin liquid. (2014, August) Retrieved from
dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/getFile.cfm?setid=b9772292-9eb6-47cf-abb8-007c25478090&type=pdf&name=b9772292-9eb6-47cf-abb8-007c25478090
Dextromethorphan. (2011, July)
nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682492.html
Guaifenesin. (2011, May)
nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682494.html
Robitussin Peak Cold Cough Plus Chest Congestion DM-dextromethorpan hydrobromide and guaifenesin solution; Robitussin Peak Cold Sugar-Free Cough Plus Chest Congestion DM-dextromethorpan hydrobromide and guaifenesin solution. (2015, November) Retrieved from
dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/getFile.cfm?setid=5b99dd81-8121-0fc4-1682-a3d1c0668859&type=pdf&name=5b99dd81-8121-0fc4-1682-a3d1c0668859
Tietze, K. J. (2015). Cough. In D. L. Krinsky, S. P. Ferreri, B. A. Hemstreet, A. L. Hume, G. D. Newton, C. J. Rollins, & K. J. Tietze (eds.), Handbook of nonprescription drugs: An interactive approach to self-care (18^th ed.), pages 198-202. Washington, DC: American Pharmacists Association.

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Medically reviewed by Darren Hein, PharmD — By University of Illinois — Updated on August 4, 2017

Honey for acute cough in children

Review question

Can honey reduce coughs caused by bacteria and viruses in children?

Relevance

Cough is a concern for parents and is the leading cause of outpatient visits. Honey is believed to prevent microbial growth and reduce inflammation.

Search date

We searched databases up to 8 February 2018 and clinical trial registries up to 12 February 2018.

Study profile

We included six small trials involving 899 children aged 12 months to 18 years conducted in Iran, Israel, USA, Brazil and Kenya. This update includes three new trials conducted between 2007 and 2016 involving 331 children.

Research funding sources

Two studies were supported by pharmaceutical manufacturers; one study by the research center of the university; one study by the Israel Honey Council and non-governmental agencies; and one by the US National Honey Council. One study did not report funding sources.

Main results

We compared honey with over-the-counter cough medicines, bromelain (pineapple enzyme) mixed with honey, placebo (a sham treatment) and no treatment.

Honey appears to reduce cough more than placebo and salbutamol (a drug that opens the airways in the lungs) when used for up to three days. Honey is likely more effective in relieving coughs and reducing the impact of coughing on children’s nighttime sleep than no treatment.

There may be little or no difference in the effects of honey and dextromethorphan (an ingredient in over-the-counter cough remedies) or the effects of honey and bromelain with honey on all cough symptoms. Honey may be better than diphenhydramine (an antihistamine) in relieving and reducing coughs in children.

Parents of seven children who received honey and two children who received dextromethorphan reported side effects in their children, such as trouble falling asleep, restlessness and agitation. Parents of three children in the diphenhydramine group reported that their children were often drowsy. Parents of nine children who received salbutamol, seven children who received honey, and six children who received placebo reported diarrhea. Parents of four children treated with salbutamol and one child treated with honey reported a rash.

We found no evidence for or against the use of honey to relieve coughs in children. The use of honey in infants under 12 months of age is not recommended due to poor immunity against bacteria that may be present in honey and cause paralysis. Most children only received honey for one night, which limits the results of this review.

Quality of evidence

Overall, the quality of the evidence was low to moderate. Some studies did not blind participants.

If you found this evidence helpful, please consider donating to Cochrane. We are a charity that produces accessible evidence to help people make health and care decisions.

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Translation notes:

Translation: Yudina Ekaterina Viktorovna. Editing: Ziganshina Lilia Evgenievna. Project coordination for translation into Russian: Cochrane Russia – Cochrane Russia (branch of the Northern Cochrane Center based at Kazan Federal University). For questions related to this translation, please contact us at: [email protected]; [email protected]

How to treat a cough: 6 effective ways

In general, coughing is normal. Coughing helps to clear the throat of phlegm and other irritants. However, a persistent cough can also be a symptom of a number of conditions, such as allergies, a viral infection, or a bacterial infection. In turn, coughs caused by colds, allergies, and sinus infections can be treated with a number of over-the-counter medications. Bacterial infections will require antibiotics. In addition to medication, you can ask your doctor about other options for treating a cough. Here are a few home remedies that can help.

1. Honey

Honey is a time-tested remedy for sore throats. It can also relieve a cough, but over-the-counter cough suppressants are more effective. You can make your own remedy at home by mixing up to 2 teaspoons of honey with herbal tea or warm water and lemon.

2. Mint

Mint leaves are well known for their healing properties. The menthol in mint soothes the throat and acts as a decongestant, helping to break down mucus. You can benefit by drinking mint tea or inhaling its vapors.

3. Thyme

Thyme is used for respiratory problems. Essence extracted from thyme leaves mixed with ivy can help relieve coughs. In addition, you can make thyme tea at home by mixing 2 teaspoons of crushed thyme leaves and 1 cup of boiling water. Cover the cup with a lid, steep for 10 minutes and strain.

4. Gargle with salt and water

Although the remedy may seem relatively simple, gargling with salt and water can help soothe the scratchy throat that causes you to cough. Mix a teaspoon of salt with warm water to help relieve irritation.

5. Ginger

Ginger can relieve dry coughs as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Brew a soothing ginger tea and let it steep for a few minutes before drinking. Add honey or lemon juice to improve the taste and soothe your cough even more.

6. Steam

A loose cough that produces mucus or phlegm can be relieved with steam. Take a hot shower or bath and let the steam fill your bathroom. Stay in this couple for a few minutes. Afterward, drink a glass of water to cool down and prevent dehydration.

Alternatively, make a steam bowl. To do this, fill a large bowl with hot water. Add herbs or essential oils such as eucalyptus or rosemary, which can also ease swelling. Lean over the bowl and cover your head with a towel. It delays the couple. Inhale the vapors at intervals of 5 minutes. This will prevent the steam from burning the skin, but will in turn relieve the symptoms.

How to prevent cough?

In addition to learning how to cure a cough, you may want to think about how to prevent it first. To protect yourself from disease, you can take the following steps:

Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
Disinfect objects that often fall into the hands of other people, such as at work.
Wash your hands frequently, especially after going to the toilet, interacting with others, or caring for someone who is sick.

When to call the doctor?

Get emergency medical help if you have a bad cough that affects your ability to breathe. Respiratory tract infections cause body aches and fevers, while allergies do not.