Coughing is a common symptom of many illnesses, but sometimes a cough can persist even when a person isn’t sick. This can be concerning and even lead to anxiety. It’s important to understand the possible causes and how to handle a persistent cough.
Persistent Coughing
A persistent cough is one that lasts for more than eight weeks in adults, or four weeks in children. It can be dry, wet, or productive of mucus. It can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or wheezing. It can also be aggravated by certain activities, such as talking, eating, or exercising.
Investigating Causes
There are many possible causes of a persistent cough. It could be due to a cold, pneumonia, or asthma. Other causes may include postnasal drip, acid reflux, or environmental allergies. It could also be a sign of a chronic illness, such as COPD or bronchitis. It’s important to talk to a doctor to determine the cause and get the best treatment.
The doctor may recommend a chest X-ray, blood tests, or an allergy test. They may also prescribe medications, such as an inhaler, or suggest lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers or getting more rest.
A persistent cough can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, so it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. The doctor can help determine the cause and develop a treatment plan to help relieve the symptoms. With the right care, it’s possible to get rid of a persistent cough and enjoy better health.
We all experience unexpected results from time to time. Have you ever experienced a cough that won’t go away but you’re not sick? It’s an annoying problem that many people experience at some point, and for some, it might seem to last for eternity. The good news is that this type of insidious cough is usually easily treatable.
Coughs resulting from allergies, asthma, and air pollution can become chief suspects in a nagging, persistent cough. Doctors then look for visible signs of infection, such as mucus when they’re evaluating a person.
In the absence of visible signs of infection, your doctor will want to evaluate your sinuses, which are located in the upper part of the face and serve to filter, warm, and moisten the incoming air. If there is any fluid buildup in the nasal cavity, it could be a possible cause of the cough.
To combat this issue, your doctor may suggest medications, such as antihistamines that can reduce inflammation and alleviate the symptoms associated with allergies or asthma. If pollution is the source of the problem, consider checking indoor air quality, as dust, mold and pet dander can worsen symptoms.
Other possible causes of a nagging, persistent cough include exposure to dry air, cigarette smoke, excess body weight, and postnasal drip. You may be referred to a specialist such as an allergist or a pulmonologist if your doctor believes that the underlying cause of the cough is more severe or complex.
Fortunately, in some cases, simply understanding the cause of the cough can help a person get closer to finding a successful treatment. While it may take more than one measure to eliminate a nagging, persistent cough that won’t go away, the good news is that taking the time to learn about the possible causes can be a worthwhile investment.
References:
https://www.webmd.com/lung/why-do-i-have-a-persistent-cough#2
https://www.healthline.com/health/cough-that-wont-go-away#causes