Chronic Cough: Causes, Prevention, Treatment, and More

Overview

Although coughing is unpleasant at times, it serves an important purpose. Coughing can also occur as a result of inflammation or disease. The majority of coughs are brief. You could get a cold or the flu, cough for a few days or weeks, and then feel better. Coughs that last for weeks, months, or even years are uncommon. A chronic cough may hamper your lifestyle and your social life too. You should always consult your doctor if you’re suffering from the same.

Understanding the reasons for chronic cough:

If an adult has a persistent cough for more than 2 months or 8 weeks, it’s considered a chronic cough. Following are the reasons that you can count on for the same.

• Asthma: Asthma develops when a person's upper airways become overly sensitive to cold air, air irritants, or exertion. Cough-variant asthma is a kind of asthma that causes a cough specifically.
• Bronchitis: Chronic bronchitis is characterized by long-term inflammation of the airways, which can result in a cough. This could be a symptom of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), an airway condition that is commonly caused by smoking.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): GERD develops when acid from the stomach rises and enters the throat. As a result, chronic throat irritation might occur, resulting in a cough.
• Postnasal drip: Also known as upper airway cough syndrome, is caused by mucus flowing down the back of the throat. This irritates the throat and causes it to cough.
• Medications: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are medications that can induce a chronic cough in some people.

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Who is at risk of developing chronic cough?

Coughs can affect everyone. The most prevalent symptom reported in healthcare providers' offices is a cough.

Some people, however, are more prone to coughing than others. These are people who:

• Intake substances found in cigarettes (like tobacco or marijuana).
• If you have chronic diseases, particularly those affecting the lungs or neurological system.
• If you have allergies,
• Kids become sick all the time, especially if they go to daycare or school.

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When should you see a doctor?

If you or your kid has a chronic ailment, you should seek particular guidance from your healthcare practitioner.

In general, contact your healthcare practitioner if you have a persistent cough and the following symptoms:

• Sneezing (noise when you breathe out).
• Fever that exceeds 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit or lasts more than a day or two.
• Chills.
• Phlegm (thick mucus, also known as sputum), particularly yellow, green, or bloody phlegm.

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How can you prevent chronic cough?

Some types of cough can be avoided by avoiding irritants that cause you to cough.

You can help prevent coughs caused by infections by doing the following:

• Getting immunized against influenza, COVID-19, and pneumonia.
• Keeping away from sick people.
• Maintain a safe distance between your hands and your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Hand sanitizers and/or soap and water should be used often.

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Treatment options available for chronic cough:

The medical treatment of a cough is dependent on the cause of the cough. If you have an infection, your doctor may give you antibiotics or antiviral medications. However, most viral coughs do not require antiviral treatment. They may recommend dietary adjustments or prescribe a proton pump inhibitor or an H2 blocker for GERD.

Water can help with a cough. It can help relieve coughs caused by throat discomfort or dryness. Water can also be used to treat coughs by vaporizing it or taking a hot shower.

Coughs might be relieved by quitting smoking and avoiding other irritants. Medicines, smells (such as perfume or candles), smoke, and allergies are examples of irritants.

Cough syrups and cough medicines are widely accessible over-the-counter for adults. In general, they have not been found to be any more effective than a spoonful of honey. Cough medicine and hard candies (ginger as an ingredient) might relieve a sore throat. Hot liquids, like tea, may also provide relief, especially if sweetened with honey.

Cough medications should not be given to children under the age of six without the permission of their healthcare professional.

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How can we help with the treatment?

If you are in search of chronic cough treatment in India, we will serve as your guide throughout your treatment and will be physically present with you even before your treatment begins. The following will be provided to you:

• Opinions of expert physicians and surgeons
• Transparent communication
• Coordinated care
• Prior appointment with specialists
• Assistance with hospital formalities
• 24*7 availability
• Arrangements for travel
• Assistance for accommodation and healthy recovery
• Assistance in emergencies

Our team at Healthtrip is dedicated to offering the highest quality health care to our patients. We have a team of highly qualified and devoted health professionals that will be by your side from the beginning of your journey.