Chronic Cough
What is Chronic Cough?
Chronic cough is a persistent cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer in adults or four weeks or longer in children. It is a common symptom of various underlying conditions and can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being. Causes of chronic cough include:
- Respiratory tract infections: Such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
- Asthma: Inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to coughing episodes.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus can trigger coughing.
- Postnasal drip: Excess mucus dripping down the back of the throat can cause coughing.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A group of lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, characterized by airflow obstruction.
- Medications: Certain medications, especially ACE inhibitors used to treat high blood pressure, can cause chronic cough as a side effect.
Chronic Cough Symptoms
Chronic cough is characterized by a persistent cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer in adults or four weeks or longer in children. While the cough itself is the primary symptom, chronic cough can also be accompanied by other symptoms depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms associated with chronic cough include:
- Frequent coughing: Persistent coughing that occurs throughout the day and night.
- Dry or productive cough: The cough may produce little to no mucus (dry cough) or be associated with the production of mucus or phlegm (productive cough).
- Coughing fits: Episodes of intense and uncontrollable coughing, which may interfere with daily activities or sleep.
- Sore throat: Irritation or discomfort in the throat due to frequent coughing.
- Hoarseness: Changes in voice quality, often accompanied by a rough or raspy voice.
- Chest discomfort: Mild chest pain or discomfort, particularly during coughing episodes.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during or after coughing spells.
- Wheezing or stridor: High-pitched whistling sounds when breathing, indicating airway obstruction or narrowing.