Common causes Chronic cough may be associated with postnasal drainage, allergy, asthma, reflux, smoking, medication effects, infection or lung disease. More than one factor may be present at the same time.
ENT assessment An ENT evaluation may include examination of the nose, throat and voice box, with flexible endoscopy when appropriate. Chest assessment, breathing tests or gastrointestinal evaluation may also be needed depending on symptoms.
Treatment Treatment should target the likely cause rather than repeatedly using cough suppressants. Options may include allergy or sinus management, asthma treatment, reflux measures, medication review, smoking cessation or cough-control therapy. Improvement may take several weeks even after treatment begins.
Warning signs Seek prompt medical care for coughing blood, breathing difficulty, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, severe swallowing difficulty, a neck lump or a cough that is worsening rapidly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a cough considered chronic?
Usually after more than eight weeks in adults.
Can several causes occur together?
Yes. Allergy, asthma and reflux may overlap.
Does every chronic cough come from the lungs?
No. Nose, throat, medication and reflux causes are common.
When is urgent care needed?
With coughing blood, breathing difficulty, chest pain or unexplained weight loss.
This information is for education only and does not replace medical assessment or treatment by a qualified physician.