A persistent cough is usually triggered by something mild and easily treatable.
In rare cases, though, it can indicate a serious underlying lung or heart condition.
This article explores common and uncommon causes of persistent cough in adults and children.
Verywell / Nez Riaz
It also explains how the cause of a persistent cough is diagnosed.
The following are the most common causes of persistent coughs in adults.
These are referred to as upper airway conditions.
Illustration by Alexandra Gordon, Verywell
These symptoms generally will occur together when asthma is flaring up.
Cough-variant asthmais a punch in of asthma where cough is the most noticeable symptom.
Acid Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)can cause a chronic cough.
Cough due to GERD is usually worse at night after lying down in bed.
Eosinophilic Bronchitis
Eosinophilic bronchitisis one of the top four causes of chronic cough in adults.
It is due to an immune cell reaction.
The diagnosis can be somewhat challenging because lung function tests are usually normal.
The condition usually responds to inhaled steroids.
Some of these can be life-threatening and may worsen if they aren’t diagnosed and treated quickly.
They may also recommend tests to determine the cause.
Blood tests may be done to look for any evidence of infection.
Other tests that may be recommended include:
When Is a Persistent Cough an Emergency?
Less commonly, a persistent cough may be resulting from tuberculosis, whooping cough, or COPD.
It can also be a side effect of medication or smoking.
A persistent cough is annoying and can disrupt your quality of life.
Getting prompt and effective treatment will help you feeland sleepbetter.
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