Doctronic navigation menu Log In
Doctronic navigation menu
Contents
  • Understanding Chronic Cough
  • Common Triggers and Causes
  • The Role of the Cough Reflex Arc

Chronic Cough: What's Behind That Nagging Hack?

Chronic Cough: What's Behind That Nagging Hack?

Why It Matters

Chronic cough is more than just an annoyance. It's a symptom that affects up to 12% of the population and can indicate a variety of underlying health issues.
Contents
  • Understanding Chronic Cough
  • Common Triggers and Causes
  • The Role of the Cough Reflex Arc

Understanding Chronic Cough

Chronic cough is a cough lasting more than eight weeks. It can be caused by conditions such as asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or even medications like ACE inhibitors. Women are more likely to suffer from chronic cough than men, possibly due to heightened reflex sensitivity.

Common Triggers and Causes

Among the myriad causes, asthma and GERD are prevalent. Asthma-related coughs are often accompanied by wheezing and shortness of breath, whereas GERD-related coughs may occur without the typical heartburn symptoms. Postnasal drip, a result of upper airway cough syndrome, is another frequent cause.
A persistent cough lasting more than eight weeks, often indicative of underlying conditions such as asthma or GERD.

The Role of the Cough Reflex Arc

The cough reflex arc involves complex signaling between the cough receptors and the brain's cough center. This reflex can become hypersensitive, making even mild irritants trigger a cough.

FAQs

What is chronic cough?

A cough lasting longer than eight weeks.

Is GERD a common cause?

Yes, GERD can frequently lead to chronic cough.

Do medications cause chronic cough?

Yes, ACE inhibitors are a known cause.

Are women more affected?

Yes, women are more likely to experience chronic cough.

Wrapping Up

Understanding the underlying cause of chronic cough is key to effective management.
Speak with Doctronic to explore potential causes and solutions for chronic cough.
Additional References
  1. Irwin RS, French CT, Lewis SZ, et al. Overview of the management of cough: CHEST Guideline and Expert Panel Report. Chest 2014; 146:885.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Health Statistics. National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey: 2010 outpatient department summary tables. 2013.
  3. Kelsall A, Decalmer S, McGuinness K, et al. Sex differences and predictors of objective cough frequency in chronic cough. Thorax 2009; 64:393.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.