What Is Chronic Cough?
Chronic cough is a persistent cough lasting more than 8 weeks in adults. Most cases are caused by:
- Post-Nasal Drip: excess mucus dripping down the throat
- Asthma: including cough-variant asthma
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): acid reflux triggering cough
These three causes account for 85–90% of chronic cough cases, but other conditions can also contribute.
When Should Chronic Cough Be Evaluated?
You should see a pulmonologist if your cough:
Persists for more than 8 weeks despite prior treatment
Occurs at night or interferes with sleep
Is accompanied by blood in sputum, weight loss, or breathlessness
Appears after COVID infection or in smokers
Red flag: coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, or a new cough in smokers requires urgent evaluation.
Common Causes of Chronic Cough
- Post-Nasal Drip: Mucus drainage triggers coughing
- Asthma: A persistent cough is the primary symptom in cough-variant asthma
- GERD: Acid reflux irritates the throat and triggers the cough reflex
- COPD: Morning productive cough in smokers
- ACE Inhibitor Cough: Dry cough in patients on these medications
- Post-COVID Chronic Cough: Lingering cough after COVID infection
How SD Premier Clinic Evaluates Chronic Cough?
We use a structured, stepwise approach to find the exact cause:
Detailed medical history and physical exam
Spirometry and bronchodilator challenge
Review of imaging and empiric treatment trials
Coordination with cardiology if a heart-related cause is suspected
Our goal is cause-specific treatment to provide effective relief and prevent recurrence.
Why Choose SD Premier Clinics for Chronic Cough Care?
We provide expert care with a structured, patient-focused approach:
Timely Access
New patients seen within 1–2 weeks
Comprehensive Evaluation
Stepwise assessment for chronic cough that persists despite prior care
Advanced Testing
In-office spirometry, imaging review, bronchodilator challenge
Integrated Care
Pulmonology care with cardiology collaboration if needed
Personalized Approach
Treatment plans tailored to the underlying cause and patient lifestyle
Supportive Team
Guidance and follow-up at every stage
Find Relief from Chronic Cough with Expert Care
Identify the cause of your chronic cough, reduce symptoms, and improve your quality of life with structured pulmonologist-led care.
FAQs
A cough lasting more than 8 weeks in adults is considered chronic and should be evaluated.
Yes, GERD can trigger a persistent cough by irritating the throat.
Excess mucus draining from the nose or sinuses down the throat, triggering cough.
Yes, heart failure or other cardiac issues can sometimes cause a chronic cough, especially at night.
Our structured evaluation can uncover less obvious causes and guide treatment to relieve symptoms.