A chronic cough is defined as one that lasts eight weeks or longer. More than simply an annoyance, a lingering cough can disrupt your sleep and affect your work. It may be accompanied by other symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, runny nose, congestion and heartburn. <\/p> \n\n
If you have a persistent cough that doesn\u2019t disappear after a reasonable amount of time, make an appointment with your physician for an evaluation. <\/p> \n\n\n
A cough is your body\u2019s way of expelling a substance that is irritating the air passages. When cells lining the air passages become irritated, they trigger air in the lungs to be forced out under high pressure. <\/p> \n\n
Chronic coughing can be triggered by a variety of factors. These include: <\/p> \n\n
Smokers are most at risk for developing a chronic cough, as are those exposed to secondhand cigarette smoke. <\/p> \n\n\n
You should contact your doctor if your cough is accompanied by fever, excessive phlegm production or blood; fails to improve after your other symptoms have disappeared; interferes with your daily activities or sleep; or you have difficulty breathing. <\/p> \n\n\n
Your doctor will discuss your medical history and give you a physical exam before administering diagnostic tests designed to determine the cause of your chronic cough. An imaging test (X-rays or CT scan), lung function test, lab tests and endoscopic tests of the trachea, nostrils and esophagus are all common. <\/p> \n\n
Once the diagnosis is made, treatment can begin. If medications are prescribed, they may include:<\/p> \n\n
Home remedies incorporating lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or adjusting your diet to eliminate foods that trigger acid reflux, can also be effective. <\/p> \n\n