Chronic Cough: What Causes Persistent Cough Symptoms & Treatment

A persistent cough is characterized as a cough that lasts for eight weeks or more in adults or four weeks in children. Unlike acute coughs, which typically arise from infections or temporary irritations, a persistent cough may indicate chronic conditions that warrant further investigation and intervention.

While occasional coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear the airways, MedlinePlus notes that a persistent cough—defined as a cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer—can signal underlying health issues that require attention. Understanding the various causes of a chronic cough is essential for effective treatment and management. Read on to learn about the common triggers and symptoms associated with persistent coughing and the available treatment options to help alleviate this bothersome condition.

 Ten possible causes for persistent cough

A persistent cough can be more than just a minor annoyance; it often serves as a symptom of underlying health issues that require careful evaluation. MedlinePlus lists various factors that can contribute to this condition, ranging from respiratory diseases to lifestyle choices and environmental influences. MedlinePlus notes that some of the most common causes of persistent cough include:

1. Asthma: A chronic inflammatory condition of the airways that can cause wheezing, shortness of breath and a persistent cough, particularly at night or during exercise.

2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A progressive lung disease, often caused by smoking, that leads to breathing difficulties and a chronic cough.

3. Infections: Prolonged infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis or post-viral cough following a respiratory infection can lead to persistent coughing.

4. Allergies: Allergic reactions to dust, pollen, mold or pet dander can cause chronic coughing as the body reacts to these irritants.

5. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Acid reflux can irritate the throat and airways, resulting in a chronic cough.

6. Lung cancer: A serious condition that may present with a persistent cough, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss or coughing up blood.

7. Smoking: Tobacco use can damage the lungs and airways, leading to chronic bronchitis and a persistent cough.

8. Environmental irritants: Exposure to pollutants, chemicals or strong odors can irritate the respiratory system and contribute to a chronic cough.

9. Interstitial lung disease: A group of disorders that cause scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties and a persistent cough.

10. Heart failure: Fluid buildup in the lungs due to heart issues can lead to a chronic cough, often worsening when lying down.

How to get rid of chronic cough?

Dealing with a chronic cough can be a challenging and frustrating experience, often impacting daily activities and quality of life. While the persistence of this symptom can be distressing, effective treatment options are available. However, it is essential to understand that the appropriate treatment will largely depend on the underlying cause of the cough. Therefore, obtaining a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional is crucial to ensure that the right approach is taken. MedlinePlus notes several potential treatments for persistent cough, including:

• Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is identified as the cause of the chronic cough, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the infection and alleviate symptoms.

• Nasal sprays: For individuals suffering from allergies or sinus issues, nasal sprays containing corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and minimize cough triggers.

• Decongestants: Over-the-counter decongestants can help relieve nasal congestion and drainage, which may be contributing to the persistent cough.

• Inhalers or bronchodilators: For those with asthma or COPD, inhalers containing bronchodilators can help open the airways and reduce coughing episodes.

• Cough suppressants: In some cases, cough suppressants may be recommended to help control the urge to cough, especially if it interferes with sleep or daily activities.

• Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, avoiding allergens and staying hydrated can also play a significant role in managing chronic cough and improving overall respiratory health.

What happens if you don’t treat persistent cough?

Neglecting to address a persistent cough can lead to a range of complications and worsening health conditions, according to MedlinePlus. While a chronic cough may seem like a minor issue at first, failing to seek treatment can have significant consequences that impact overall well-being. Below are some potential outcomes of leaving a persistent cough untreated:

• Dizziness: Frequent coughing can lead to lightheadedness or dizziness, particularly if it disrupts normal breathing patterns and oxygen intake.

• Headaches: The strain of persistent coughing can trigger tension headaches or migraines due to muscle tension and increased intracranial pressure.

• Vomiting: Severe coughing fits may induce gag reflexes, leading to nausea and, in some cases, vomiting.

• Sleep issues: A chronic cough can interfere with sleep quality, causing insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns, which can result in fatigue and irritability.

• Worsening underlying conditions: If the cough is a symptom of a more serious condition, such as asthma, COPD or lung cancer, delaying treatment can exacerbate these diseases and lead to more severe health complications.

• Infections: An untreated cough related to an infection can allow the illness to persist or worsen, potentially spreading to other areas of the respiratory system.

• Social isolation: Persistent coughing may lead to embarrassment or discomfort in social situations, causing individuals to withdraw from social interactions.

• Decreased quality of life: Overall, the combination of physical discomfort, sleep disturbances and emotional stress can significantly diminish an individual's quality of life.

When to see a doctor?

While occasional coughing can be normal, certain signs indicate that professional medical care is necessary. Here are some key indicators that warrant a visit to a healthcare provider:

• A cough that lasts more than 8 weeks: If a cough persists for more than eight weeks in adults or four weeks in children, it is essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or experiencing shortness of breath, especially during normal activities, can signal a serious respiratory issue that requires immediate attention.

• Fever: A persistent cough accompanied by a high fever may indicate an infection or other serious condition that needs to be assessed by a healthcare professional.

• Cough with blood: Coughing up blood or bloody mucus is a concerning symptom that should prompt immediate medical evaluation, as it may indicate a serious health issue.

• Chest pain: If you experience persistent chest pain along with a cough, it could be a sign of a more severe condition affecting the lungs or heart.

• Unexplained weight loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss in conjunction with a chronic cough can be a warning sign of underlying health issues, including malignancies.

Urgent care near me

If you're experiencing persistent coughing and need prompt medical attention, visit Solv to find urgent care near you for a thorough evaluation and effective treatment.