Cough is a reflex action that helps to clear the airways of irritants, mucous, or foreign particles. An acute cough lasts for less than three weeks whereas a persistent cough lasts for eight weeks or longer in adults and 4 weeks or longer in children and can be indicative of other underlying conditions. In this article, we will delve deep into persistent cough also known as chronic cough, its causes, symptoms and when to see a doctor.
Chronic cough affects approximately 9.6% of adults globally, while in Australia, the prevalence is slightly lower at 8.8% according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. The incidence of chronic cough tends to rise steadily, peaking in individuals in their 60s. A recent study examining Australian children seen in emergency departments revealed that 7.5% experienced chronic cough, while 20–23% continued to have a persistent cough by day 28. Chronic wet cough is also said to be occurring in approximately 13% of children residing in Indigenous communities. This highlights the disproportionate burden experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
A persistent cough is more than just annoyance. Understanding the underlying triggers, symptoms, and when to seek a medical consultation is important to address this issue promptly.
Consult a registered Australian health practitioner regarding your cough 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If further assessment is required, an online doctor can also issue a specialist referral or a referral to pathology/radiology tests if needed. With telehealth, you can easily get medicines delivered using a pharmacy online without disturbing your day-to-day schedule. While telehealth is a convenient option, certain cases might require an in-person consultation or additional diagnostic tests. Consult a doctor to guide you on the best course of action.
Book a telehealth appointment and speak to an online doctor within 15 minutes regarding your persistent cough.
Persistent coughs can happen for many reasons, like infections or ongoing health issues like asthma or GORD. It's important to know when to see a doctor for help diagnosing the problem quickly and getting immediate treatment. If you or your loved one is experiencing a chronic cough for more than three weeks, it is important to seek a consultation with a doctor immediately.
Chronic cough affects approximately 9.6% of adults globally, while in Australia, the prevalence is slightly lower at 8.8% according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. The incidence of chronic cough tends to rise steadily, peaking in individuals in their 60s. A recent study examining Australian children seen in emergency departments revealed that 7.5% experienced chronic cough, while 20–23% continued to have a persistent cough by day 28. Chronic wet cough is also said to be occurring in approximately 13% of children residing in Indigenous communities. This highlights the disproportionate burden experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
A persistent cough is more than just annoyance. Understanding the underlying triggers, symptoms, and when to seek a medical consultation is important to address this issue promptly.
What is a persistent cough?
A persistent cough is an ongoing cough that lasts more than 8 weeks in adults or 4 weeks in children. It is also called chronic cough and can vary in intensity, frequency, and characteristics, and they may be dry or productive. It can persist even after the initial cause, such as a cold or the flu has resolved. It can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition.Symptoms of chronic cough
There could be many different symptoms associated with chronic cough, these symptoms depend on the condition due to which the persistent cough occurs, such as:- A continuous cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer in adults and 4 weeks or longer in children
- Coughing may produce little to no mucous (dry cough) or may produce phlegm or mucous (productive cough).
- Episodes of intense coughing or coughing fits
- Changes in the voice or hoarseness due to irritation of the throat.
- Chronic coughing can lead to throat irritation and discomfort leading to sore throat.
- Chronic cough may be accompanied by wheezing or difficulty breathing, particularly in individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
- Fatigue due to disrupted sleep patterns and increased exertion from night coughing.
- Fever or body aches
- May cause chest pain or discomfort.
- May impact daily life, causing disruptions in work, and social activities and can create psychological issues such as anxiety, embarrassment etc.
- Serious symptoms such as coughing up blood, chest tightness, or significant shortness of breath require immediate medical attention.
What causes a persistent cough?
A persistent cough could be caused by several medical conditions such as- Respiratory Infections: Cold, flu, bronchitis, or pneumonia can lead to a cough that sticks around even after other symptoms fade.
- Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Asthma or COPD
- Allergies: Hay Fever or allergies can irritate the airways, causing ongoing coughing.
- Postnasal drip: Can be a result of allergies a deviated septum or other causes
- Smoking: Smoking or exposure to smoke can irritate the airways, leading to a long-lasting cough.
- Medications: Some medications, like those for high blood pressure such as ACE Inhibitors,, can trigger a cough as a side effect.
- Environment: Pollution, chemicals, or workplace exposures can irritate the lungs and cause coughing.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease(GORD): Acid reflux can cause stomach acid to back up into the oesophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation of the throat and airways, resulting in a chronic cough, particularly when lying down or after eating.
- In rare cases, other underlying medical conditions, such as lung cancer, heart failure, pulmonary fibrosis, or tuberculosis, can also cause persistent coughing as a symptom.
How is a persistent cough treated at home?
A persistent cough at home involves many simple adjustments to your lifestyle and inculcating healthy habits into your daily life. Some of the home remedies are:- Stay Hydrated: Keep your throat moist by drinking plenty of fluids like water, herbal tea, or warm broth. This will help thin the mucous.
- Use a Humidifier: Use a humidifier or take a steamy shower to add moisture to the air. This can soothe the airways and reduce the coughing.
- Saltwater Gargling: This can help relieve throat irritation and reduce coughing.
- Honey: Honey has natural soothing properties and can help relieve coughing. Do not give honey to children below 1-year-old due to the risk of botulism.
- Cough Drops or Lozenges can temporarily soothe the throat and reduce coughing, however, excessive usage can mask worsening symptoms
- Elevate Your Head: Prevent mucous from pooling into your throat by using extra pillows while sleeping.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong odours, chemicals, dust and dust mites and other environmental irritants that can worsen coughing.
What to avoid?
When dealing with a chronic cough, it's important to avoid factors that can exacerbate irritation or worsen symptoms. Here's what to avoid:- Smoking and second-hand smoke
- Air pollution and industrial emissions
- Strong odours and irritants such as chemicals, perfumes, environmental irritants
- Dry air and cold air
- Certain foods and beverages such as spicy foods, acidic foods, and carbonated beverages
- Overexertion and strenuous physical activity
- Emotional stress and anxiety
When should I consult my doctor?
It is important to understand the underlying medical condition of a persistent cough. This will ensure the right kind of treatment for the health condition causing it before it gets much worse. You should consult a doctor if:- If your cough persists for more than 8 weeks in adults or four weeks in children or is not improving with home remedies.
- If your cough is accompanied by high fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing up blood, or significant fatigue, you should see a doctor promptly.
- If you have underlying health conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, or immune system disorders, you need to consult a doctor immediately to understand what is causing the cough.
- If you suspect that your cough is a side effect of medicine, consult your doctor for medical advice on potential alternatives to your treatment plan.
- If your cough disrupts your sleep and is interrupting your day-to-day activities.
- If you've recently travelled to areas with infectious diseases or have been exposed to someone with a contagious illness, consult your doctor if you develop a cough or other symptoms.
- If your cough is getting worse over time or is accompanied by new or worsening symptoms
Consult a registered Australian health practitioner regarding your cough 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Can a telehealth appointment with a doctor help with my persistent cough?
A telehealth appointment with a registered Australian doctor can help in evaluating your symptoms, medical history, and any recent exposure to determine possible causes of cough. After understanding your symptoms and history, the doctor can give you an initial idea of what might be causing your cough. They'll then suggest ways to help, like over-the-counter medications, changes to your lifestyle, or can issue an online script if needed. Additionally, the online doctor can provide reassurance, answer any questions, or concerns you may have, and offer follow-up guidance to monitor your progress and ensure optimal care. Your doctor can also guide you regarding the vaccines or flu shots you might need to get to address your chronic cough.If further assessment is required, an online doctor can also issue a specialist referral or a referral to pathology/radiology tests if needed. With telehealth, you can easily get medicines delivered using a pharmacy online without disturbing your day-to-day schedule. While telehealth is a convenient option, certain cases might require an in-person consultation or additional diagnostic tests. Consult a doctor to guide you on the best course of action.
Book a telehealth appointment and speak to an online doctor within 15 minutes regarding your persistent cough.
Persistent coughs can happen for many reasons, like infections or ongoing health issues like asthma or GORD. It's important to know when to see a doctor for help diagnosing the problem quickly and getting immediate treatment. If you or your loved one is experiencing a chronic cough for more than three weeks, it is important to seek a consultation with a doctor immediately.
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Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
