Understanding Chronic Cough: Causes and Treatments

A chronic cough, defined as a cough lasting more than eight weeks, can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being. It often signals an underlying condition that requires thorough evaluation and targeted treatment. At Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group, we specialize in diagnosing and managing chronic coughs by addressing their root causes and providing effective treatments.

Understanding Chronic Cough

Chronic cough can arise from various underlying conditions, including its causes and contributing factors. Here’s a closer look at some common causes:

Postnasal Drip occurs when excess mucus from the nasal passages drips down the back of the throat, triggering coughing. It is often caused by allergies, sinusitis, or infections and can be persistent and bothersome.

Asthma: Asthma is a respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. Chronic cough is a common asthma symptom, often accompanied by wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Managing asthma with appropriate medications can help alleviate the cough.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD involves acid refluxing from the stomach into the esophagus, which can irritate the throat and trigger a chronic cough. Symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation, and a persistent cough, especially after eating or lying down.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is crucial in managing chronic cough effectively. At Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group, we use a range of diagnostic tools to identify the underlying cause of your cough:

Medical History and Physical Examination: Our doctors will review your medical history and conduct a physical exam to understand your symptoms and potential triggers.

Allergy Testing: We may perform allergy tests to determine if allergens contribute to your chronic cough. These tests help identify environmental or food-related triggers.

Pulmonary Function Tests: These tests measure lung function and can help diagnose asthma or other respiratory conditions that may be causing your cough.

Acid Reflux Testing: We may recommend tests to measure acid levels in the esophagus for suspected GERD-related cough and evaluate reflux severity.

Imaging Studies: We sometimes use imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans to assess the lungs and airways for abnormalities.

Treatment Options

Effective treatment for chronic cough involves addressing the underlying condition causing the symptoms:

Postnasal Drip Management: Treatment may include nasal decongestants, saline nasal sprays, or antihistamines to reduce mucus production and alleviate coughing.

Asthma Management: If asthma is the cause, we will prescribe inhalers, corticosteroids, or other medications to control inflammation and bronchoconstriction, thereby reducing cough.

GERD Treatment: For coughs related to GERD, treatment options include lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments and avoiding trigger foods, as well as medications like antacids or proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid.

Cough Suppressants: In some cases, cough suppressants or expectorants may temporarily relieve persistent coughing.

Living with Chronic Cough

Managing a chronic cough involves ongoing care and adjustment of treatment strategies. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding allergens, and managing stress, can also reduce the frequency and severity of coughing episodes.

If you are struggling with a chronic cough, seeking expert care is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment. Our team at Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group is dedicated to providing personalized care and comprehensive management of chronic cough and its underlying causes. Contact us today at 805-658-9500 to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward relief.