Coughing is a normal symptom of a cold, but if your cough persists without other symptoms, it can be confusing. If you have an unexplained cough that won’t go away, it’s important to take a closer look at the cause.
Unsolved Coughing
If you have a cough that won’t go away, it’s important to determine the cause. It could be a sign of something more serious, such as asthma or allergies. It could also be due to a virus or bacterial infection. If the cough persists for more than a few weeks, it’s important to have it checked out by a doctor.
Investigating the Cause
The first step in investigating the cause of a persistent cough is to determine if it is related to allergies or asthma. If so, your doctor may prescribe an inhaler or antihistamine to help manage the symptoms.
If the cough is due to a virus or bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antivirals to help fight the infection. In some cases, the cause of the cough may be due to a structural problem, such as a deviated septum or enlarged adenoids. In this case, your doctor may recommend surgery to correct the problem.
It’s also important to consider environmental factors that could be contributing to the coughing. For example, if you spend a lot of time in a dusty or smoky environment, this could be causing your cough. If you suspect this is the case, it’s important to take steps to reduce your exposure to these triggers.
If you have a persistent cough that won’t go away, it’s important to have it checked out by a doctor. By investigating the cause, you can take steps to reduce your symptoms and get back to feeling better.
When a cough persists for more than 8 weeks, it is officially defined as a chronic condition. Unfortunately, there are those among us who may experience a cough that won’t go away yet don’t show any other symptoms that are typically associated with having a cold or an infection.
This type of mysterious and persistent cough causes concern for individuals and their families, as it is often difficult to distinguish between a serious health condition and a temporary annoyance. In such cases, it is important to see a doctor to ensure that there are no underlying issues.
Common causes of a chronic cough include: allergies and sensitivities to various allergens; postnasal drip from sinusitis or rhinitis; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); and asthma, bronchitis or COPD. It is reported that one in three people will have a persistent cough regardless of other existing symptoms.
Persistent coughs are further exacerbated by smoking and taking certain medications, such as some antidepressants and over-the-counter medications. Not to worry though, as there are treatments available for each of these causes. Allergies, postnasal drip and GERD can be treated and managed symptomatically. Similarly, when it comes to managing asthma and chronic bronchitis, inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators are normally prescribed.
The best way to handle a cough that won’t go away is to get a professional consultation and evaluation. A healthcare provider may be able to provide relief by prescribing medications or suggesting lifestyle modifications. If a chronic condition is identified, early treatment is essential to prevent symptoms and complications. Therefore, it is important to seek help before the cough progresses and becomes an even more serious concern.
Overall, a cough that won’t go away can be both a nuisance and an indication of other underlying issues. Taking the necessary steps and seeing a doctor is always encouraged, as this can provide an answer and ultimately, relief.
