What is chronic cough?
A chronic cough is defined as a cough that lasts longer than eight weeks in adults (or four weeks in children). While occasional coughing is normal, a chronic cough may be a sign of something more serious, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath.
What causes chronic cough?
There are several common causes of chronic cough, including:
- Asthma – This chronic lung condition often causes coughing, especially at night or after exercise. It may be accompanied by wheezing or tightness in the chest.
- Post-nasal drip – Mucus from the nose or sinuses can drip into the throat, triggering a cough.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – Stomach acid can irritate the throat and lungs, causing a cough.
- Smoking – A major contributor to chronic cough, especially in long-term smokers.
- Certain medications – Some blood pressure medications (like ACE inhibitors) can lead to a chronic cough.
What are the symptoms of chronic cough?
A chronic cough can vary from person to person, but you might experience:
- A dry or wet cough that doesn't go away
- Wheezing or whistling sounds when breathing
- Hoarseness
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue from coughing at night
How is chronic cough diagnosed?
Diagnosing a chronic cough often starts with a physical exam and a discussion of your medical history. Your provider may also recommend:
- Chest X-rays or CT scans
- Lung function tests (especially if asthma is suspected)
- Allergy testing
- Acid reflux evaluation
- Review of current medications
What are treatment options for chronic cough?
Treating chronic cough means addressing the root cause. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
- Inhalers or other asthma medications
- Antihistamines or nasal sprays for allergies
- Acid reducers for reflux
- Quitting smoking
- Adjusting medications, if that's the trigger
It’s important to work with your healthcare provider to find the right approach, especially if your cough is impacting your sleep or quality of life.
Once the cause of your chronic cough is identified, treatment can help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
A board-certified Allergy Immunologist can help you build a customized plan to manage your chronic cough and improve your quality of life. Schedule an appointment with The Iowa Clinic's Allergy team today by calling 515.875.9260 or schedule online.