The cough when infected with the omicron strain of corona virus is due to irritation of the nerve endings in the pharynx and larynx. Therefore, it cannot be treated with mucolytic agents that cause sputum, otolaryngologist, otoneurologist Olga Malchenko said.
Omicron affects the nerve in the pharynx, after which there is inflammation in the upper respiratory tract. This leads to irritation of the mucous membranes, which affects the nerve endings and causes a cough, reports Ura.ru.
“When treating such a cough, mucolytic agents are not suitable. Drugs that suppress the attacks are prescribed, as well as inhalations, even just with mineral water or different medicines. They soften the mucosa, moisten it and the irritation goes away,” said the specialist.
In omicron, the cough may persist for up to 3 weeks. In 1-2 weeks after recovery, inflammatory changes in the mucous membranes are no longer detected, but coughing episodes may continue, as nerve endings reflexively provoke coughing.
Immunologist Irina Yartseva confirmed that Omicron often develops upper airway edema, irritation, and an irritating, dry, slightly barking, unproductive cough. It is possible to stop such attacks with humidification, plenty of warm water, gargles and nasal rinses, she said.
“In rare cases, to relieve the manifestation of laryngitis and tracheitis, inhalation with fumicort, local steroids, which relieve edema,” said Yartseva.