Cough 

Chronic cough is a common symptom that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. At BreathesleepMD Clinic, we specialize in respiratory health and are here to help you better understand this condition.

Causes

Chronic cough can result from a wide range of causes, and identifying the root issue is essential for effective treatment. Some common causes include:

•  Postnasal Drip: Excessive mucus production in the throat or sinuses can lead to irritation and coughing.
•  Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus can trigger coughing.
•  Asthma: Chronic inflammation of the airways can lead to persistent coughing, especially at night or in the early morning.
•  Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This group of lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, can cause chronic cough.
•  Medications: Some medications, such as ACE inhibitors used for blood pressure control, can induce a chronic cough as a side effect.
•  Respiratory Infections: Conditions like bronchitis and tuberculosis can lead to persistent coughing.
•  Environmental Irritants: Exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke, air pollution, or workplace dust can trigger chronic cough.
•  Idiopathic Cough: In some cases, the cause of chronic cough remains unknown, leading to a diagnosis of idiopathic cough.

Tests/Procedures

At BreathesleepMD Clinic, our medical team is well-equipped to diagnose and treat chronic cough effectively. Various diagnostic tests and evaluations can help pinpoint the underlying cause:

•  Physical Examination: A thorough assessment of your medical history and a physical examination are essential initial steps in identifying potential causes.
•  Chest X-ray: An X-ray can help rule out structural abnormalities or lung diseases.
•  Pulmonary Function Tests: These tests measure lung function and can identify conditions like asthma or COPD.
•  Bronchoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube into the airways to examine the bronchial passages and collect samples if necessary.
•  CT Scan of the Chest: A CT scan provides detailed images of the lungs and can uncover hidden issues.
•  Esophageal pH Monitoring: To evaluate the potential role of GERD in chronic cough, pH monitoring may be conducted.
•  Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected, allergy testing can be helpful in identifying allergens triggering the cough.
•  Sputum Culture and Analysis: This test can help detect infections or inflammatory conditions.

Conclusion

Chronic cough is a symptom that should not be ignored, as it may signify an underlying medical condition that requires attention and treatment. The team at BreathesleepMD Clinic is committed to helping individuals understand the causes of their chronic cough and develop personalized treatment plans to provide relief.

If you or a loved one is experiencing chronic cough, we encourage you to contact BreathesleepMD Clinic for a comprehensive evaluation and expert care.

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