Cough
Introduction
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 of Chronic Cough
- Postnasal Drip
Excess mucus from the nose or sinuses drips down the throat, causing irritation and coughing. - Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, irritating it and triggering a cough. - Asthma
Inflammation narrows airways, leading to coughing attacks, especially at night or early morning. - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Lung diseases like bronchitis and emphysema cause ongoing coughing and breathing issues. - Medications
Certain drugs, like ACE inhibitors for blood pressure, may cause a persistent cough as a side effect. - Respiratory Infections
Infections such as bronchitis or tuberculosis inflame the airways, resulting in cough. - Environmental Irritants
Smoke, pollution, or dust exposure can irritate the lungs and cause long-term coughing. - Idiopathic Cough
Sometimes, no clear cause is found despite thorough tests, called idiopathic cough.
Tests/Procedures
- Physical Examination
Our team reviews your medical history and performs a detailed physical exam to find clues about your cough’s cause. - Chest X-ray
An X-ray helps detect lung problems or structural issues that might be causing your cough. - Pulmonary Function Tests
These tests check how well your lungs work and can reveal asthma or COPD. - Bronchoscopy
A thin, flexible tube is used to look inside your airways and take samples if needed. - Chest CT Scan
This scan gives detailed images of your lungs to spot hidden problems. - Esophageal pH Monitoring
We measure acid levels in your esophagus to see if acid reflux is causing your cough. - Allergy Testing
Tests identify allergies that may be triggering your symptoms. - Sputum Analysis
Examining mucus from your lungs helps find infections or inflammation.
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.
Ready to Feel Better Every Day?
Get personalized treatment to manage asthma and allergy symptoms so you can breathe and live better every day.