Cough That Won't Go Away With Medicine
Having a persistent cough can be frustrating and debilitating, especially when it doesn't seem to respond to medication. A cough that won't go away with medicine can be a symptom of an underlying condition that requires medical attention. In this article, we will explore the possible causes of a chronic cough and the available treatments.
What is a chronic cough?
A chronic cough is a cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer in adults or four weeks or longer in children. It can be a dry cough or a cough that produces phlegm. A chronic cough can be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as asthma, allergies, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Causes of a chronic cough
There are several possible causes of a chronic cough, including:
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing and coughing. People with asthma often have a cough that worsens at night or early morning.
Allergies
Allergies can cause a chronic cough due to post-nasal drip, where mucus from the nose drips down the back of the throat and irritates the airways. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, and animal dander.
COPD
COPD is a group of lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause breathing difficulties and a chronic cough. COPD is often caused by smoking or exposure to air pollution.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
GERD is a digestive disorder where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and a chronic cough. People with GERD may also experience difficulty swallowing and chest pain.
Infections
A chronic cough can also be caused by infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. Infections can be viral or bacterial and may require antibiotics or antiviral medication.
Treatments for a chronic cough
The treatment for a chronic cough depends on the underlying cause. Some possible treatments include:
Medications
If the cough is caused by asthma, allergies, or GERD, medications such as inhalers, antihistamines, or proton-pump inhibitors may be prescribed. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections.
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes can help manage a chronic cough caused by smoking or exposure to air pollution. Quitting smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke, and using air purifiers can all help reduce coughing.
Home remedies
Home remedies such as honey, ginger, and steam inhalation may help soothe a chronic cough. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any home remedies.
When to see a doctor
It is important to see a doctor if a chronic cough persists for more than eight weeks in adults or four weeks in children. A healthcare provider can perform tests to determine the underlying cause of the cough and recommend appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
A cough that won't go away with medicine can be a symptom of an underlying condition that requires medical attention. Possible causes of a chronic cough include asthma, allergies, COPD, GERD, and infections. Treatment for a chronic cough depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, lifestyle changes, and home remedies. It is important to see a doctor if a chronic cough persists for more than eight weeks in adults or four weeks in children.
