What is persistent cough? Diseases that are thought to be the main causes
Even though the cold has gone away, the cough continues; it starts in the evening or early morning, and even when you take cough medicine, it doesn’t get better.
Various causes can be considered for this persistent cough.
Some of the typical causes of persistent cough are:
- Cough after infectionEven after colds or other infections have cleared up, the airways can become sensitive, causing a cough that may persist for several weeks.
- Cough asthmaIt is a disease in which there is no whistling, hissing sound (wheezing), or shortness of breath, and coughing is the main symptom.
- Nasal inflammation and sinusitis, etc.Having runny nose that flows down into the throat can cause a cough.
- gastroesophageal reflux diseaseCoughing may be triggered by reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.
- Other respiratory diseasesIt can be caused by conditions such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), pneumonia, bronchiectasis, and interstitial pneumonia.
In addition, some side effects from blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors) and environmental factors such as smoking may also be involved.
EspeciallyCough-asthma is one of the leading causes of persistent cough.This is because chronic inflammation in the bronchi causes coughing to become more likely with stimuli such as cold air, conversation, or exercise. It often worsens especially at night or early in the morning, and the symptoms may also appear as a result of a cold.
In such cases, seek medical attention.
- After the cold, only the cough has persisted.
- The cough has lasted for more than 3 weeks.
- Coughing becomes severe at night or early in the morning
- Coughing occurs from talking, exercise, or cold air
- Even if I take cough medicine, it doesn't improve the situation.
- The phlegm keeps coming back, and the cough keeps recurring.
If a cough persists for a long time, it may not be simply a cold. Especially if it is accompanied by bloody sputum, shortness of breath, persistent fever, and weight loss, there is a possibility of pneumonia or other respiratory diseases, so early medical attention is required. If breathing difficulties are severe, emergency medical attention is required.
Tests performed at our clinic
We will examine in detail the timing and course of the cough, the presence of phlegm, nighttime symptoms, smoking history, and medications being taken, and look for the cause.
If necessary, we will perform the following tests:
- Chest X-rayWe check for any illnesses that could be causing the cough, such as pneumonia or lung abnormalities.
- blood test：Evaluate the degree of inflammation and the involvement of allergies.
- Phlegm testing (test of phlegm)When suspected of an infectious disease or the like, we examine the pathogen or other causative agents.
If necessary, more detailed tests such as a chest CT may be performed.
medical treatment
Treatment for persistent cough depends on the underlying condition. It is important not only to suppress the cough but also to identify the cause and administer appropriate treatment.
- Cough after infectionMany cases improve naturally; if necessary, use medication to relieve the cough while monitoring the progress.
- Cough asthmaWe primarily use inhaled steroids, but if necessary, we may also combine them with bronchodilator medications. After symptoms improve, treatment may continue for a certain period to prevent recurrence.
- Other causesWe provide treatment based on the underlying cause of the condition, such as rhinitis, sinusitis, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. If specialized testing or treatment is required, we will refer you to the appropriate medical institution.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Even though I have a cold, my cough keeps coming back. Should I see a doctor?
A. After a cold, the airways become sensitive, and coughs can last for several weeks. However, since coughs may also be a sign of other conditions such as asthma or other diseases, it is recommended to see a doctor if the cough persists or worsens.
Q. I only have a dry cough without any wheezing symptoms. Is there a chance I have asthma?
A. Yes. Cough-asthma is characterized by no wheezing or obvious shortness of breath, and only coughing is present. It is especially suspected when it worsens at night or early in the morning, or when the cough persists after a cold.
Q. If a cough persists for a long time, is a X-ray test always necessary?
A. It is determined by the symptoms and clinical findings. If the cough persists for a long time, chest X-rays may be performed to avoid missing pneumonia or other lung diseases.
Q. If my cough and asthma improve with inhalers, can I stop treatment?
A. Even if the cough improves, inflammation of the airways may remain. It is possible for the symptoms to recur, so it is important to consult a doctor while monitoring the symptoms and treatment progress to determine the treatment period.