Chronic Cough
A chronic cough is defined as a cough that lasts eight weeks or longer. It is not just an annoyance; it can disrupt your sleep, cause physical exhaustion, and is often a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
When to see a specialist?
Understanding Chronic Cough
A chronic cough is rarely a standalone disease but rather a symptom indicating an issue within the respiratory or digestive systems. The most common culprits are postnasal drip, asthma, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Less commonly, it can be caused by infections, certain blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors), or more serious lung conditions.
Common Symptoms
A persistent cough can severely impact quality of life and may be accompanied by:
- A runny or stuffy nose (postnasal drip)
- A feeling of liquid running down the back of your throat
- Frequent throat clearing and hoarseness
- Heartburn or a sour taste in your mouth
- In severe cases, coughing hard enough to cause chest pain or rib fractures
Diagnosis and Treatment
Effective treatment requires finding the precise cause. We may recommend chest X-rays, spirometry, or a trial of medications to pinpoint the trigger.
Treatment is highly customized based on the underlying cause:
- Antihistamines and decongestants for postnasal drip
- Inhaled asthma medications if cough-variant asthma is diagnosed
- Acid blockers if GERD is the primary trigger
- Adjusting existing medications that may be causing the cough
- Cough suppressants for temporary relief while treating the root cause
Dr. Feby Sadek for Chronic Cough
Dr. Feby Sadek has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating chest conditions. Book your consultation today to evaluate your condition and formulate the most suitable treatment plan.
Book your consultation now