Do you have a persistent, nagging cough? An occasional cough is a normal healthy function of your body. It helps clear your throat and airway of germs, mucus and dust. However, there are reasons for recurrent, lingering cough. One of the most common reasons is postnasal drip. This occurs when your nose is congested and the mucus drains down your throat. This can irritate the back of your throat and cause a cough. Other major causes include asthma, gastric reflux, infections, pneumonia, and an upper respiratory infection.

If your cough lasts longer than eight weeks or is not improving with home remedies and over-the-counter medicine, you should see a doctor.

What causes a cough?

A cough is a sudden, often repetitive, spasmodic contraction of the thoracic diaphragm and other muscles of respiration, resulting in forceful release of air from the lungs. It can be either dry or wet (containing mucus). It is a symptom that can accompany many different diseases and conditions. Because coughing is also a normal reflex that helps to clear the throat and airways, it can be difficult to determine whether a cough is due to an underlying condition or if it is just a normal response to an irritant.

A lasting cough may be a sign of many things. Continue reading to learn the reasons why your cough may not be improving.

What are the major causes of persistent cough?

Postnasal Drip or Upper airway cough syndrome

There are many reasons why your cough may not be improving, but one of the most common is postnasal drip or the upper airway cough syndrome. Post-nasal drip is a condition where the mucous membranes in your nose are irritated and produce excess mucus due to allergies, infections, dust, or chemicals, etc. Most cases are not severe and can be easily treated. However, if your postnasal drip problem continues to persist for longer than six to eight weeks, it is best to visit an expert.

Asthma

Asthma is another common cause of lingering cough. With asthma, there is always a little bit of swelling inside the airways of your lungs. This makes the airways extra sensitive when exposed to viruses, irritants or even emotions. Coughing from asthma can occur after exercise, after exposure to specific triggers, after laughing, and often at night.

While asthma itself is not “curable,” you can manage your symptoms and find relief. With proper management, your cough should eventually ease. Be sure to reach out to a doctor if your asthma cough continues despite treatment.

GERD

It's possible that gastric reflux, also called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), is just one of several stimuli evoking cough in a patient with an abnormal cough reflex. In fact, researchers estimate that GERD is responsible for over 25 percent of all cases of chronic cough.

There are other ways to find out whether a cough is related to GERD. Your doctor may try putting you on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Also, maintaining a moderate weight, quitting smoking, and reducing stress can help reduce the risk of GERD. In more serious cases, surgical interventions may be considered necessary.

Anyone experiencing frequent acid reflux symptoms should talk with their doctor.

Other causes — Less common causes include infections, medications (ACE inhibitors), and lung diseases.

When to worry about a constant cough?

Although a chronic cough with no other symptoms is usually not serious, warning symptoms call for prompt medical care. Get emergency care for any cough that’s accompanied by:

·        trouble breathing

·        coughing up blood

·        high fever

·        chest pain

·        fainting

Don't ignore a chronic cough — but don't panic just because your cough lingers for more than three or four weeks. If you are suffering from persistent and nagging cough, reach out to our team of experts at ENT Care Centers (ENTCC). Our specialists are qualified experts dedicated to providing innovative solutions and ensuring your wellbeing. Call us at (502) 837-7838 or visit our website to visit one of our Ear, Nose & Throat Doctors in and around Louisville, KY and southern Indiana. You are sure to receive the compassionate care you and your family deserve!