Chronic Cough | Diagnosis, Causes, and Treatment

What is a Chronic Cough? This video covers the medical definition and provides a brief overview of this topic.

➡️ Causes
A chronic cough can stem from a variety of underlying conditions, reflecting the complexity and interconnection of the respiratory and related systems in the body. It is often a symptom of persistent issues such as asthma, where inflammation and sensitivity lead to frequent coughing, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, irritating the throat and airways. Smoking is another common culprit, causing irritation and damage to the respiratory tract that can persist long after cessation.

Postnasal drip, where excess mucus from the nose drips down into the throat, can also trigger a chronic cough, as can conditions like chronic bronchitis, a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by inflamed and narrowed airways. In some instances, a chronic cough may indicate more serious conditions such as lung infections, lung cancer, or heart failure, where the cough serves as a significant warning sign. The precise cause can be elusive and may require thorough investigation by healthcare professionals to identify and treat effectively.

➡️ Signs and Symptoms
The hallmark sign of a chronic cough is its persistence, lasting eight weeks or longer in adults and four weeks in children. Beyond its duration, the symptoms accompanying a chronic cough can vary widely, often providing clues to its underlying cause. For instance, a chronic cough may be dry or produce mucus (sputum), and it may worsen at night, impacting sleep quality. Individuals with a cough related to asthma might experience associated symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. In cases where gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the culprit, symptoms could include heartburn, chest pain, and a sour taste in the mouth, especially after eating or lying down.

Postnasal drip often leads to a sensation of mucus trickling down the back of the throat, which can cause frequent throat clearing, a sore throat, and sometimes hoarseness. When a chronic cough is caused by more serious conditions like lung cancer or heart failure, it might be accompanied by significant weight loss, unexplained fatigue, swelling in the legs, or a change in the cough's character. These varied symptoms underscore the complexity of diagnosing a chronic cough, as they reflect the diverse range of potential underlying conditions.

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🚑MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with a physician with any questions that you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you watch in this video. We strive for 100% accuracy, but errors may occur, and medications, protocols, and treatment methods may change over time.

💡AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER
This description contains affiliate links. If you decide to purchase a product through one of them, we receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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⏰TIMESTAMPS
0:00 - Intro
0:30 - Causes
1:30 - Signs and Symptoms
2:42 - Diagnosis
4:07 - Treatment
5:26 - Home Remedies
6:35 - Seek Help

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#cough #coughing #chronicough

[MisterFinn]

i've had a cough since the last week of May