Everyone experiences a cough from time to time, but some patients have long-lasting symptoms that can affect their overall health and quality of life. It may also be a symptom of a larger problem. <\/p>\n
A cough is considered chronic when it lasts more than two months in adults or one month in children.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Anyone suffering from a persistent cough should seek a diagnosis for what\u2019s causing the cough from an ENT doctor. If there is blood when you cough you should seek immediate medical attention.<\/p>\n
What Causes Chronic Cough?<\/h2>\n
A cough is your body\u2019s way of expelling a substance that is irritating the air passages. When cells lining the air passages become irritated, they trigger air in the lungs to be forced out under high pressure.<\/p>\n
Chronic coughing can be triggered by a variety of factors. These include:<\/p>\n
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- Postnasal drip.<\/li>\n
- Asthma.<\/li>\n
- Allergies.<\/li>\n
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).<\/li>\n
- Upper respiratory tract infections.<\/li>\n
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (includes bronchitis and emphysema).<\/li>\n
- Pertussis (whooping cough).<\/li>\n
- Air pollution.<\/li>\n
- ACE inhibitors (found in some medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Smokers are most at risk for developing a chronic cough, as are those exposed to secondhand cigarette smoke.<\/p>\n
What Are the Symptoms of Chronic Cough?<\/h2>\n
You should contact your doctor if your cough is accompanied by fever, excessive phlegm production or blood; fails to improve after your other symptoms have disappeared; interferes with your daily activities or sleep; or you have difficulty breathing.<\/p>\n
How Is Chronic Cough Treated?<\/h2>\n
Your doctor will discuss your medical history and give you a physical exam before administering diagnostic tests designed to determine the cause of your chronic cough. An imaging test (X-rays or CT scan), lung function test, lab tests and endoscopic tests of the trachea, nostrils and esophagus are all common.<\/p>\n
Once the diagnosis is made, treatment can begin. If medications are prescribed, they may include:<\/p>\n
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- Antihistamines.<\/li>\n
- Decongestants.<\/li>\n
- Asthma drugs.<\/li>\n
- Antibiotics.<\/li>\n
- Acid blockers.<\/li>\n
- Cough suppressants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Home remedies incorporating lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or adjusting your diet to eliminate foods that trigger acid reflux, can also be effective.<\/p>\n