Chronic Cough

Understanding Chronic Cough

Chronic cough is a persistent cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer in adults or four weeks in children. While an occasional cough is normal and helps clear the airways, a chronic cough can be disruptive and may indicate an underlying health condition. Chronic cough can affect daily activities, sleep, and overall quality of life, making it essential to seek medical evaluation and treatment.

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The information provided below and throughout this website is presented for general educational purposes only and does NOT constitute professional medical advice. This information is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice and NO material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

At Becker ENT & Allergy, our team of experienced ENT and Allergy specialists can help in the evaluation and treatment of chronic cough. We often work in conjunction with our colleagues in Pulmonology, Gastroenterology, and other fields to evaluate coughs and to develop treatment plans to address the root causes of persistent coughing.

What Are the Symptoms of Chronic Cough?

Chronic cough can present with various symptoms depending on the underlying cause. In addition to a persistent cough, patients may experience additional signs that indicate a more serious condition. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for timely intervention and treatment.

Close-up of person coughing into fist, highlighting persistent cough as a key symptom of chronic respiratory issues.

Common symptoms associated with chronic cough include:

Frequent throat clearing

Hoarseness or voice changes

A sensation of mucus dripping down the throat (postnasal drip)

A dry or wet (phlegm-producing) cough

Shortness of breath or wheezing

Chest discomfort or pain

A tickling or irritating sensation in the throat

Coughing that worsens at night or after lying down

If you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period, a consultation with an ENT specialist can help in the evaluation of the cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Causes of Chronic Cough

Chronic cough can result from various underlying conditions, many of which involve the respiratory or digestive system. Identifying the cause is essential for effective treatment and long-term relief.

Common causes of chronic cough include:

Postnasal Drip (Upper Airway Cough Syndrome)

Mucus buildup from allergies, sinus infections, or irritants can trickle down the throat, leading to frequent coughing.

Asthma

Some forms of asthma present primarily as a chronic cough without significant wheezing or shortness of breath.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Stomach acid reflux can irritate the throat, causing persistent coughing, particularly at night.

Respiratory Infections

Lingering effects of colds, flu, or pneumonia can result in a chronic cough, even after the infection resolves.

Chronic Bronchitis

A form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis involves persistent inflammation of the bronchial tubes.

Medications

Certain medications, particularly ACE inhibitors used for high blood pressure, can cause chronic coughing as a side effect.

Environmental Irritants

Exposure to smoke, pollution, dust, or strong odors can trigger or worsen a chronic cough.

Lung Disease

Conditions such as interstitial lung disease, lung cancer, or chronic infections may lead to persistent coughing.

Because chronic cough can have multiple causes, an expert evaluation by an ENT specialist may be a helpful component of determining the most appropriate course of treatment.

Consultation and Diagnosis

When evaluating a chronic cough, the ENT specialists at Becker ENT & Allergy use a thorough approach to identify the underlying cause and create a personalized treatment plan. Our specialists will conduct a comprehensive medical history review and perform a physical examination to assess your symptoms. Diagnostic procedures may include:

Nasal Endoscopy: A thin, rigid rod is used to examine the nasal passages and sinus drainage areas for signs of postnasal drip or inflammation.

Flexible Fiberoptic Nasopharyngolaryngoscopy: A thin, flexible tube is used to examine the nasal passages and throat for signs of postnasal drip or inflammation.

Pulmonary Function Tests: These tests assess lung function to check for asthma or other respiratory conditions.

Imaging Tests: Chest X-rays or CT scans may be used to detect lung abnormalities or infections.

pH Monitoring for GERD: A test to measure acid levels in the esophagus to determine if acid reflux is contributing to the cough.

Allergy Testing: Identifies allergens that may be triggering postnasal drip or airway irritation.

Accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment. Our team ensures a comprehensive assessment to address the root cause of your symptoms.

Woman holding throat with highlighted airway illustration, indicating chronic cough evaluation by ENT specialist.

How Is Chronic Cough Treated?

Treatment for chronic cough depends on the underlying cause. At Becker ENT & Allergy, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Possible treatments include:

Medications:

Antihistamines and decongestants for allergies and postnasal drip
Inhaled corticosteroids for asthma-related coughing
Proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers for GERD-induced coughing

Lifestyle and Home Remedies:

Avoiding smoking and exposure to irritants
Staying hydrated to thin mucus secretions
Elevating the head while sleeping to reduce acid reflux symptoms

Surgical or Procedural Interventions:

Sinus surgery for chronic sinusitis and postnasal drip
Bronchoscopy for evaluation of airway abnormalities
Voice therapy for patients with vocal cord dysfunction contributing to cough

Our ENT and Allergy specialists work with your PCP and other specialists to create a customized treatment plan to provide long-term relief and improve your quality of life.

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Why Choose an ENT Specialist?

At Becker ENT & Allergy, our board-certified specialists offer:

Board-certified and highly trained ENT doctors.

State-of-the-art technology for precise diagnosis and treatment.

Personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs.

Convenient locations across Philadelphia.

Commitment to patient safety and satisfaction.

If chronic cough is affecting your daily life, our team is here to help you find lasting relief.

Philadelphia Locations and Contact Information

Becker ENT & Allergy has multiple locations in and around Philadelphia, making expert care easily accessible. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or contact us at one of the following locations:

Walnut Street Office

1608 Walnut St Suite 902
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: (215) 929-8301

South Street Office

1740 South St Suite 401
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Phone: (215) 671-6330

For expert care and treatment of chronic cough, contact Becker ENT & Allergy today.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Chronic Cough

What qualifies as a chronic cough?

A chronic cough is defined as one that persists for more than eight weeks in adults or four weeks in children. While occasional coughing is normal and helps clear irritants from the airways, a persistent cough that does not resolve may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical evaluation. Common causes include postnasal drip, asthma, GERD, and respiratory infections. If left untreated, chronic cough can lead to complications such as throat irritation, difficulty sleeping, and even rib fractures in severe cases. Seeking medical attention is crucial to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.

Can allergies cause chronic cough?

Yes, allergies can contribute significantly to chronic cough by triggering postnasal drip, where excess mucus drains down the back of the throat and causes irritation. Common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander can inflame the nasal passages and lead to persistent coughing. Allergy-related coughs often worsen during specific seasons or exposure to known triggers. Treatment options include antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, allergy immunotherapy, and environmental modifications to reduce allergen exposure. An Allergy specialist can conduct allergy testing to identify specific triggers and recommend appropriate management strategies.

When should I see a doctor for a chronic cough?

If your cough persists for more than eight weeks, interferes with daily life, or is accompanied by symptoms such as weight loss, night sweats, blood in mucus, or shortness of breath, it is essential to seek medical attention. A persistent cough can indicate an underlying condition such as GERD, asthma, or chronic bronchitis, and an ENT specialist can help determine the cause and provide targeted treatment.

How is chronic cough diagnosed?

Diagnosis of chronic cough involves a thorough review of medical history, a physical exam, and diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays, pulmonary function tests, nasal endoscopy, and pH monitoring. These tests help determine whether allergies, acid reflux, infections, or lung conditions are contributing to the cough.

Can GERD cause chronic cough?

Yes, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can lead to chronic cough by allowing stomach acid to travel up the esophagus and irritate the throat and airways. This often results in coughing, especially at night or after meals. Treatment for GERD-related cough may include dietary modifications, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Can GERD cause chronic cough?

Can chronic cough be caused by stress or anxiety?

Yes, stress and anxiety can contribute to chronic cough by causing muscle tension, increased throat clearing, and hypersensitivity of the airway. Conditions like vocal cord dysfunction and habit cough syndrome are linked to anxiety. Behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and counseling can help manage stress-induced coughing.

Is chronic cough a sign of lung cancer?

While most chronic coughs are due to benign causes, persistent coughing, especially with symptoms like unexplained weight loss, coughing up blood, or chest pain, should be evaluated to rule out lung cancer. A chest X-ray or CT scan may be recommended for further assessment.

What lifestyle changes can help manage chronic cough?

Avoiding smoking, managing allergies, using humidifiers, and staying hydrated can help alleviate chronic cough. For GERD-related cough, dietary modifications such as avoiding spicy foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating are beneficial.

Are there home remedies for chronic cough?

Drinking warm liquids, using honey, gargling with salt water, and using lozenges may provide temporary relief. However, persistent cough should be evaluated by a specialist to address underlying causes and ensure proper treatment.