A persistent cough can be bothersome, but it may also indicate a medical issue. An individual with a chronic cough has been experiencing the problem for more than eight weeks if an adult or for more than four weeks if a child. To address the concern in a timely manner, it is essential to understand what causes chronic cough, identify the potential signs or symptoms of chronic cough, and know what diagnostic tests are available. In this article, we will discuss in detail the causes and the diagnostic techniques used for chronic cough, along with Chronic cough treatment in Mohali.
What are the Contributing Factors for Chronic Cough?
Many factors can contribute to the development of a chronic cough. Generally, the most common causes of chronic cough include the following:
- Postnasal Drip
When excess mucus drips down the back of the throat, it causes a constant urge to cough.
- Asthma
An asthma-related cough generally is worse in the evening or during exercise; an asthma cough may be accompanied by wheezing and difficulty breathing.
- GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
When acid from the stomach travels up to the throat, it causes irritation of the airways, resulting in chronic coughing.
- Cigarette Smoking
Most smokers develop a chronic cough over time as a result of irritation/damage to the lung tissue.
- Respiratory Infections
Many viral or bacterial-caused respiratory infections can cause inflammation to remain even after other symptoms have resolved.
- Pollutants in the air
As per the Best pulmonologist in Mohali, Long-term exposure to allergens or lung irritants (dust, chemicals, and air pollution) can irritate the lungs, causing the cough to return repeatedly.
What are the Common Symptoms of Chronic Coughing?
Chronic coughing, which is recurrent, frequently occurs with other symptoms that can help determine the underlying cause. In addition to a chronic cough, the following are common signs or causes of chronic cough:
- Chronic irritation of the throat
- Raspy voice
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort/pain
- Coughing up mucus/phlegm
- Unexplained fatigue
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth (common with GERD)
If any of these symptoms become progressively worse or are accompanied by unexplained weight loss, a high fever, or coughing blood, it could indicate a serious medical condition that requires immediate treatment.
How a Physician Diagnoses a Chronic Cough?
Diagnosing a chronic cough requires a systematic process. The physician will start by reviewing your health history, lifestyle habits, and the length of time you have been experiencing symptoms. To identify the cause of your chronic cough, you may be given several diagnostic tests:
- Chest X-Rays or CT Scans: Imaging studies that examine the lungs for possible infections, tumors, and chronic lung disease.
- Spirometry and Pulmonary Function Tests: Tests that verify the presence of asthma or other obstructive disorders.
- Laboratory Tests (Blood Tests): check for infections, allergies, and inflammatory markers.
- Endoscopy: A procedure to evaluate the esophagus of a patient suspected of having GERD.
- Allergy Testing: Identifies possible allergens (for example, pollen, dust mites, and food allergens).
If you are looking for the Best pulmonologist in Mohali, or the leading Respiratory specialist in Chandigarh, Sohana Hospital might just be the best option for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali is home to the World’s most advanced technology and North India’s most trusted and experienced pulmonologists who provide the most comprehensive and holistic pulmonary care to the patients in the region. Book your appointment today!