A chronic cough does not go away. Asthma, postnasal drip, and acid reflux are common causes of persistent cough. The underlying cause determines treatment. If you have a cough that has lasted more than two months or if your child’s cough has lasted more than four weeks, you should see a west los angeles cough doctor to find out why.
What is chronic cough?
Chronic cough is defined as one that lasts for over eight weeks in grownups and four weeks in children. It is one of the most prevalent causes of doctor’s appointments. Chronic cough is not an illness in and of itself. It is an indication of something else wrong with your body.
Is chronic cough common?
Chronic cough affects between 10 and 20 percent of the population in the United States. It is one of the most prevalent reasons individuals visit their doctors yearly.
Symptoms of chronic cough
Some chronic cough symptoms are more prevalent and less consequential than others, such as:
- Heartburn.
- Postnasal drip.
- A runny or stuffy nose.
- Fever (a fever of 38.3 degrees Celsius or 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher).
- Frequent throat clearing or sore throat.
The following are more significant persistent cough symptoms:
- Coughing up phlegm or blood.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Persistent hoarseness.
- Shortness of breath or wheezing.
- A drenching overnight sweat.
If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact your doctor immediately.
What does persistent coughing indicate?
Chronic cough can occur in conjunction with a variety of different medical issues. People who smoke are more likely to acquire persistent coughs. Those with the following diseases are also at risk of acquiring chronic cough:
- Pulmonary fibrosis, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), or other respiratory conditions.
- Postnasal drip.
- Asthma.
- Obesity, especially around the abdomen.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Bronchiectasis.
Chronic cough can also occur as a result of chemical and dust exposure or as a result of airway hypersensitivity.
Causes of chronic cough
Asthma, GERD, and postnasal drip are the most prevalent persistent cough causes. These diseases are responsible for up to 90% of persistent cough cases. Other reasons for persistent cough include:
- Respiratory conditions
Bronchiectasis, Asthma, persistent Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Bronchitis, or Upper respiratory disorders such as pneumonia, flu, and colds can all cause a persistent cough.
- Sinus conditions
Postnasal drip can be caused by sinus disorders such as sinusitis. This leak might feel like a tickling in the back of your throat, and it can cause persistent coughing. This tickling occurs when there is an unusually large volume of draining mucus.
