A chronic cough is one of the most common reasons for a visit to a doctor. Although opinions vary, a cough is considered chronic if it is consistent and lasts three weeks or more. As a chronic cough is often a symptom of an underlying health problem, it should not be ignored. It could be a result of asthma, allergies, a sinus infection, an irritation caused by acid that results from gastrointestinal reflux, medications, or even the aspiration of a foreign body or substance into the lungs. Not unexpectedly, the most common cause of chronic cough is cigarette smoking. There are many ways to treat a chronic cough, buts the treatment depends on the cause, and a proper medical diagnosis is necessary.
Asthma
Sometimes, a chronic cough may be the only symptom of asthma an individual is experiencing. Usually, an inhaled bronchodilator that opens the air passageways is most effective. An inhaled steroid can also be helpful and sometimes serve as a prophylactic measure.
Allergies
An obvious measure to prevent, or stop, a cough resulting from allergies is to avoid irritants. Since all irritants may not be known, or there may be unavoidable exposure, antihistamines can calm an allergic reaction and the resulting cough.
Infections
A sinus infection with post nasal drip, bronchitis, and pneumonia produce cough causing mucus. Antibiotics to treat the infections may eliminate the problem. If it is a viral illness, antibiotics will not be effective, although decongestants may help. The doctor and patient must carefully weigh their options. A cough suppressant may stop the cough, but it can prevent the body from breaking up and expelling accumulated mucus. It should only be used in extreme times, for example when it is out of control or keeping a patient from getting much needed rest. An expectorant, on the other hand, breaks up the mucus and makes it easier to expel when coughing. There are times, when an illness has passed, that a cough persists and needs to be treated. It is important to be sure that the illness has actually passed. Sometimes, something as simple as a cough drop may ease a cough.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux, like that from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, can cause irritation and a chronic cough. Treatment of the disease should bring relief. There are many medications available, both prescription and over the counter, that can help, but it is wise to have consistent heartburn and acid problems checked by a medical professional. They can cause serious health issues over time. Some preventative measures include no eating for two to three hours before bedtime and avoiding foods known to cause heartburn.
Medication Problems
Some medications for diseases like high blood pressure can cause a chronic cough. A change of medication can be discussed with a doctor. By no means should a person discontinue medication for a health problem without the advice of a doctor.
Home Remedies
There are many home remedies worthy of consideration, as long as underlying causes are not being disregarded. Honey, with other ingredients like hot tea, grape juice, and black pepper, is a popular cough fighting ingredient. Gargling with hot saltwater helps clear the mouth and throat of mucus for relief. Ginger tea, or warmed ginger ale, can soothe a cough; be sure the ginger ale contains real ginger. Last, a well hydrated body will produce thinner secretions that are less likely to cause a cough, so it is important to remain hydrated.
The pharmaceutical and home remedies for relieving a chronic cough are many and widely varied. With conscientious persistence and ingenuity, a solution is usually possible.
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