Chronic Cough

Chronic Cough

One of the most frustrating conditions for patients is a chronic cough. Strong coughing spells can disrupt sleep, cause respiratory distress, and lead to embarrassing social situations.

Common Causes:

1. LPR/GERD (esophageal reflux of stomach contents into the voice box or throat
2. Allergy, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis
3. Tumors
4. Smoking
5. Asthma
6. Pneumonia/bronchitis
7. Medications

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) refers to backward flow of stomach acid and other stomach contents into the esophagus, larynx, and pharynx. If acid moves into the throat, this can result in chronic irritation or spasm of the airways, which can cause shortness of breath and coughing. In many individuals, no sensation of heartburn is felt and their only symptom may be cough.
Certain medications, notably ACE inhibitors, captopril used in treating high blood pressure, can cause chronic cough.

If chronic cough persists, his or her physician should evaluate them to exclude; tumor, allergy, LPR/GERD, asthma, postnasal drip, drug side effect, interstitial lung disease, or other unusual infections.