Reasons for persistent cough and when to see doctor
What to do when a persistent cough does not go away (photo: Freepik)
A persistent cough can be a sign of a serious health condition. A doctor outlined ways to treat a cough and when it is necessary to seek immediate medical attention, according to Harvard Women's Health Watch.
Causes of persistent cough
Dr. Jessica McCannon from Harvard-affiliated Mass General Brigham explained that a cough is a natural reflex that helps keep the airways clear. It is often caused by a cold or another respiratory virus and may last up to three weeks.
If the cough persists for eight weeks or more, it is considered chronic. Such a condition can be dangerous.
Chronic cough can have multiple underlying causes. Doctors typically do not focus solely on the airways or lungs to determine the cause.
Over a dozen conditions or situations can explain a prolonged cough, including:
- Bronchitis
- Seasonal allergies
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Side effects from medications like those for high blood pressure
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Interstitial lung disease, a progressive condition that involves cough and shortness of breath
- Chronic lung infections
- Lung cancer
Sometimes, chronic cough has very obvious causes, such as smoking.
Treatment
Often, people initially use over-the-counter medications to soothe their cough. Cough suppressants or antihistamines can be taken if you suspect an allergy is the cause.
However, if relief is not achieved, you should consult a doctor.
Seek medical attention if the persistent cough does not improve after antibiotic treatment or if symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, weight loss, or fatigue develop.
To investigate the cause, a physical exam, X-ray, or lung tests may be necessary.
To make your doctor's visit more productive, Dr. McCannon suggests one important strategy: monitor your cough.
"Note its patterns. What circumstances bring it on? Is it productive or dry? Is it worse after meals, or when you're lying down? Does it intrude on sleep?" the expert added.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
