Chronic cough

Chronic cough is a persistent and prolonged cough that lasts 8 weeks or longer, and can be caused by conditions such as asthma, eosinophilic bronchitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, postnasal drip syndrome, rhinosinusitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, or bronchiectasis. Even though many lung diseases cause coughing, chronic cough is not always linked to another illness and can be difficult to treat.

How prevalent is chronic cough?

The prevalence of chronic cough has been estimated to range from ~2% to 18%.

What are the important risk factors for chronic cough?

Smoking, breathing in secondhand smoke, and working in a dusty job are risk factors for developing chronic cough.

How does chronic cough impact quality of life?

Prolonged coughing can cause physical tiredness, disturbed sleep, and elevated stress levels, ultimately affecting overall health. It may also lead to musculoskeletal issues, such as chest pain and soreness in the abdominal muscles. Chronic cough can also lead to social isolation, as people may feel embarrassed or worry that their coughing is disruptive to others.

What treatments are available for chronic cough?

Medications used to treat chronic cough include antihistamines, corticosteroids, decongestants, inhaled asthma medicines, antibiotics, and acid blockers. Cough suppressants may also be prescribed to reduce coughing; however, these aren’t recommended in children. Cough suppression therapy proves to be a highly effective intervention.

Developed by EPG Health for Medthority, independently of any sponsor.