Chronic Cough

Beyond the Hesitation: Empowering Lives, Overcoming Chronic Cough

Welcome to Universal Hospital’s Chronic Cough Information Center. Persistent coughing can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, and understanding its causes, diagnosis, and potential treatments is crucial for effective management.

Understanding Chronic Cough

A chronic cough is defined as a cough that lasts for more than eight weeks in adults and four weeks in children. It can be a symptom of various respiratory and non-respiratory conditions. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for proper treatment.

Common Causes:

Respiratory Infections: Prolonged cough can result from infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
Allergies: Irritants like pollen, dust, or pet dander can lead to chronic cough.
Asthma: Inflammation and narrowing of the airways may cause persistent coughing.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid flowing into the esophagus can trigger coughing.
Postnasal Drip: Excess mucus dripping down the back of the throat can cause a chronic cough.
Medication Side Effects: Certain medications may lead to coughing as a side effect.

Diagnosis

Medical History: Detailed discussion of symptoms and potential triggers.
Physical Examination: Examination of the throat, chest, and respiratory function.
Imaging Tests: Chest X-rays or CT scans to assess lung and airway abnormalities.
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): Measures lung function and capacity.
Laboratory Tests: Blood tests to identify underlying infections or allergies.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the chronic cough and may include:

Medications: Antihistamines, bronchodilators, or acid-suppressing drugs.
Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding triggers, maintaining proper hydration, and using humidifiers.
Speech Therapy: For coughs related to vocal cord dysfunction.
Allergen Management: Taking steps to reduce exposure to allergens.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

If you experience a chronic cough, especially if accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or unintentional weight loss, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional.

Universal Hospital is dedicated to providing personalized care for individuals experiencing a chronic cough. For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our specialists.