In short: A cough that lasts longer than eight weeks is considered chronic. In most cases it has a clear cause that can be diagnosed and treated, and the most common causes are asthma, postnasal drip and reflux.
Common causes
- Asthma, including asthma whose only symptom is cough
- Postnasal drip and nose and sinus disease
- Reflux
- Eosinophilic bronchitis (without asthma)
- ACE inhibitors, a type of blood pressure medication
- Smoking and other exposures
- A cough that lingers after a viral infection
A structured work-up
A detailed consultation, a chest X-ray, spirometry and FeNO, and, where needed, a CT scan or further tests. Sometimes a targeted trial of treatment is also part of the diagnosis.
When the cough persists
In some patients the cough remains even after every contributing cause has been treated. This is usually due to hypersensitivity of the cough reflex, and it can be treated: with medications that calm the reflex and with therapy from a speech and language therapist.
When not to wait
Blood in the sputum, weight loss, prolonged fever, significant shortness of breath, hoarseness or difficulty swallowing, or a change in the character of the cough in a smoker. In these situations, see a doctor promptly rather than waiting.
Frequently asked questions
My cough started after a virus. Will it go away?
A cough after an infection often lasts three to eight weeks and resolves on its own. If it lasts longer, it is worth having it evaluated.
Related topics
General information only; it does not replace a medical consultation. עברית