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Contents
  • Common Culprits Behind Chronic Cough
  • Diagnosing the Root of the Problem
  • Treatment Options to Quiet Your Cough
  • When to Seek Medical Attention

Chronic Cough: When Your Cough Won't Quit

Chronic Cough: When Your Cough Won't Quit

What's the Big Deal?

A cough that lasts more than 8 weeks can be frustrating and disruptive. Understanding the causes and treatments of chronic cough is key to finding relief.
Contents
  • Common Culprits Behind Chronic Cough
  • Diagnosing the Root of the Problem
  • Treatment Options to Quiet Your Cough
  • When to Seek Medical Attention

Common Culprits Behind Chronic Cough

The most frequent causes of chronic cough include asthma, postnasal drip, and acid reflux. Other possibilities are certain medications, lung conditions, or smoking. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.

Diagnosing the Root of the Problem

Your doctor will likely start with a thorough history and physical exam. Tests may include chest X-rays, breathing tests, or allergy evaluations. Sometimes, a trial of medication is used to help pinpoint the cause.
Chronic cough is a persistent cough lasting more than 8 weeks, commonly caused by asthma, postnasal drip, or acid reflux. Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.

Treatment Options to Quiet Your Cough

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Inhaled steroids may help asthma-related cough. Antihistamines or decongestants can address postnasal drip. For reflux, lifestyle changes and acid-reducing medications are often effective. In some cases, cough suppressants provide relief.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many causes of chronic cough are not serious, some red flags warrant prompt medical care. These include coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, or difficulty breathing. Persistent cough in smokers should always be evaluated to rule out lung cancer.

FAQs

How long is too long for a cough?

A cough lasting more than 8 weeks is considered chronic.

Can stress cause chronic cough?

Stress alone doesn't cause chronic cough, but it may worsen existing cough.

Is chronic cough contagious?

Most chronic coughs are not contagious.

Can chronic cough be cured?

Many cases can be effectively treated once the cause is identified.

Does chronic cough get worse at night?

Some causes, like reflux or postnasal drip, often worsen at night.

The Bottom Line

While chronic cough can be frustrating, proper diagnosis and treatment can provide relief in most cases.
Struggling with a persistent cough? Talk to Doctronic about your symptoms and get personalized advice on next steps.
Additional References
  1. Irwin RS, et al. Classification of Cough as a Symptom in Adults and Management Algorithms: CHEST Guideline and Expert Panel Report. Chest. 2018;153(1):196-209.
  2. Gibson P, et al. Treatment of Unexplained Chronic Cough: CHEST Guideline and Expert Panel Report. Chest. 2016;149(1):27-44.
  3. Morice AH, et al. ERS guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic cough in adults and children. Eur Respir J. 2020;55(1):1901136.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.