Chronic Cough

  • Home
  • Respiratory Care
  • Lung
  • Conditions
  • Chronic Cough
Condition

What Is a Persistent or Chronic Cough?

A persistent cough is one that lasts for more than 2 weeks and should not be ignored. When a cough persists for 8 weeks or longer in adults, it is classified as a chronic cough. Both persistent and chronic coughs can significantly disrupt daily life, causing fatigue, interfering with sleep, and even leading to complications if left unchecked.

While a persistent cough may sometimes resolve on its own, it can also be a sign of an underlying issue that requires medical attention. Early evaluation is essential to determine the cause and begin appropriate treatment.

What Are the Common Causes of a Persistent or Chronic Cough?

Persistent or chronic cough is often a symptom of an underlying condition. Identifying the cause is key to effective treatment. Common causes include:

  • Postnasal Drip: Mucus from the nose or sinuses drips down the back of the throat, causing irritation and coughing. It is often linked to allergies or sinus infections.
  • Asthma: A condition where the airways become inflamed and narrow, often causing wheezing, breathlessness, and a persistent cough.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid backs up into the throat, irritating the airways and causing a cough, especially after eating or lying down.
  • Chronic Bronchitis: A type of long-term lung inflammation, often caused by smoking or exposure to pollutants, resulting in a productive cough.
  • Medication (ACE Inhibitors): Drugs used to treat high blood pressure can sometimes have a side effect of persistent coughing.
  • Infections: Coughing can linger after viral infections like the common cold or flu, or due to more serious infections like pneumonia or bronchitis.

If you have a persistent cough lasting more than 2 weeks or a chronic cough over 8 weeks, seeking medical evaluation can help uncover and address the underlying cause

Could a Persistent or Chronic Cough Be a Sign of Something Serious?

While many persistent and chronic coughs are caused by manageable issues, some can be a sign of a more serious condition. These include:

  • Lung Cancer: Persistent coughs, especially in smokers or those with a history of heavy smoking, may sometimes be an early warning sign.
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This includes conditions like chronic bronchitis and emphysema, where damage to the lungs causes blocked airflow and ongoing coughing.
  • Pulmonary Fibrosis: Scarring in the lungs makes them stiff, leading to coughing, shortness of breath, and reduced oxygen levels in the body.
  • Tuberculosis (TB): A serious infection that often causes a cough lasting weeks, with symptoms like fatigue, fever, and sometimes coughing up blood.
  • Heart Failure: When the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, fluid can build up in the lungs, causing a chronic cough that worsens when lying down.

If you have a persistent or worsening cough, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out these conditions and ensure timely treatment.

When Should You Worry About Your Cough?

In some cases, a persistent and chronic cough may signal a more serious underlying condition. Watch for the following red-flag symptoms:

  • Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
  • Significant, unexplained weight loss
  • Persistent night sweats
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain not related to coughing

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.

Investigations and Diagnostic Tests

To diagnose the cause of a persistent or chronic cough, a lung specialist will take a detailed history and perform a thorough physical examination. Diagnostic tests may include:

  • Chest X-Ray or CT Scan: Provides images to detect lung abnormalities like infection or tumours.
  • Spirometry (Breathing Tests): Measures lung function to diagnose conditions such as asthma or COPD.
  • Exhaled Nitric Oxide Test: Measures the level of nitric oxide in your breath, which can help diagnose asthma and assess airway inflammation.
  • Allergy Testing: Identifies allergens that may trigger or worsen the cough.

These tests help pinpoint the underlying cause, enabling a more targeted and effective treatment plan.

O2 Lung Centre offers a Persistent Cough Screening Package designed to accurately diagnose the cause of persistent coughs and create a targeted treatment plan.

Service Package

Persistent Cough Screening Package

What’s Included:

  • Consultation with Specialist
    Initial assessment and discussion of symptoms as well as test results.
  • Chest X-ray
    Detects lung abnormalities like infections, tumours, or other conditions.
  • Spirometry (Breathing Test)
    Measures lung function to diagnose asthma, COPD, or other lung conditions.
  • Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO)
    Tests for airway inflammation, often seen in asthma.

Price: $380

(Before GST)

Make an Appointment

Contact our nearest clinic today to schedule a persistent cough screening. List of available locations as follows:

Disclaimer

  • This package is available for self-paying outpatients only. If you are covered by insurance, please contact us directly for further assistance.
  • This package is available for a limited time only. The details of this package, including pricing, services, and availability, are subject to change without prior notice.
  • All services included in this package are subject to terms and conditions, as well as the approval of participating clinics.
  • This package does not cover additional treatments or services that may be recommended following the initial assessments.
  • The company reserves the right to modify or discontinue this package at its sole discretion.