While a mild cough from simple irritation can occasionally improve in 1 to 2 days, most viral coughs typically take 1 to 2 weeks to fully resolve. For a dry, tickly cough, a cough suppressant like dextromethorphan can help. If you are coughing up mucus, an expectorant like guaifenesin is more suitable. Betadine (povidone-iodine) gargles can be very helpful in soothing throat irritation and reducing local germs, though they won't treat a deep chest cough. Rest well, stay hydrated with warm fluids, and please see a doctor if your cough worsens or is accompanied by a fever or breathing difficulties.
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