Introduction
If you’ve been coughing for more than a couple of weeks, it’s time to see a doctor. A cough that lingers can be a sign of something serious, like asthma, bronchitis, or even heart disease. Here are some surprising reasons your cough won’t quit.
Causes of a Persistent Cough
There are many potential causes of a persistent cough, and it is important to see a doctor to find the underlying cause. Some common causes of a persistent cough include:
-Asthma: A chronic inflammation of the airways that can cause wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing.
-Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A group of lung diseases that block airflow and make breathing difficult.
-Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): A condition where stomach acid flows back up into the throat, irritating the lining of the esophagus and causing a cough.
-Infections: Such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or whooping cough.
-Medications: Including beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, and certain types of antidepressants.
-Smoking: The smoke from cigarettes irritates the lungs and airways, causing a cough.
- Allergies
If you have a chronic cough, it could be due to allergies. Allergies are one of the most common causes of chronic cough, and they can be triggered by a variety of things, including pollen, dust, pet dander, and mold. If you have allergies, you may also experience other symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. If your cough is due to allergies, over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications can help to relieve your symptoms.
- Asthma
There are a number of surprising reasons that your cough might not be going away, even after you’ve taken medication or seen a doctor. One potential reason is asthma. If you have asthma, your airways are always inflamed and can easily become irritated, leading to coughing. Allergies can also cause coughing, as can exposure to irritants like smoke or chemicals. If you have a chronic cough that won’t go away, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any serious underlying causes.
- Acid Reflux
If you have a cough that won’t quit, it could be caused by acid reflux. Acid reflux is a common condition that happens when stomach acid enters the esophagus. This can happen after eating a large meal or drinking acidic beverages. The acid can cause irritation and coughing. If you have acid reflux, your doctor may prescribe medication to help relieve your symptoms.
Treating the Underlying Cause of Your Cough
If your cough is caused by a virus, there is no specific treatment. You will just have to let the virus run its course. However, if your cough is due to an underlying condition, such as allergies or asthma, treating the condition will usually get rid of the cough.
If your cough is caused by allergies, you may need to take allergy medication or use an inhaler. If your cough is due to asthma, you may need to use an inhaler or take asthma medication. In some cases, you may need to see an allergist or pulmonologist for allergy testing or lung function testing.
- Medical Treatments
If you’ve got a cough that just won’t quit, you might be surprised to learn that there are a number of potential causes. While some causes of a persistent cough are harmless, others may be indicative of a more serious condition. Here are some surprising reasons your cough might be sticking around:
- Allergies – If you have seasonal allergies, you may experience a hacking cough as your body tries to expel the irritants. Allergy medications can help to ease symptoms and stop the coughing.
- Asthma – A chronic cough is often one of the first signs of asthma. If you think you might have asthma, see your doctor for an official diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Acid reflux – When stomach acid comes up into the throat, it can cause a nagging cough. This is often worse at night or after eating a large meal. If you think acid reflux might be to blame for your cough, talk to your doctor about treatments options such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors.
- Post-nasal drip – This is when mucus drains from the sinuses down the back of the throat, often causing a tickling sensation that leads to coughing fits. Treating post-nasal drip typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as allergies or sinus infections. Your doctor may also recommend decongestants or antihistamines to help ease symptoms in the meantime.
- Home Remedies
There are a number of surprising reasons your cough won’t quit. Many of these reasons have to do with common household items and activities that you may not be aware of. Here are some of the most surprising reasons your cough won’t quit:
- You’re using a humidifier – While humidifiers can be great for easing congestion, they can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. If your humidifier isn’t cleaned regularly, it could be the reason your cough won’t quit.
- You’re taking hot showers – Hot showers may feel good when you’re congested, but they can actually make your cough worse. The steam from the shower can irritate your airways and make your cough more productive.
- You’re using scented candles – Scented candles may make your home smell nice, but they can also trigger coughing episodes. Many people are allergic to the chemicals in scented candles, which can cause a reaction that leads to coughing.
- You’re smoking – This one should be obvious, but smoking is one of the leading causes of chronic coughing. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your health- and your cough.
- You’re eating spicy food – Spicy foods can trigger coughing by irritating the throat and lungs. If you find that spicy foods make your cough worse, it’s best to avoid them altogether.
When to See a Doctor
If your cough is accompanied by a fever, shortness of breath, or wheezing, it could be a sign of a more serious condition like pneumonia or bronchitis. In these cases, you should see a doctor right away.
If your cough is dry and hacking, it could be a sign of allergies or asthma. If you have a history of either of these conditions, you should see your doctor to rule out any other possibilities.
If your cough is wet and productive, it could be a sign of a cold or the flu. In most cases, these illnesses will resolve on their own within a week or two. However, if your symptoms last longer than that or get worse instead of better, you should see your doctor to rule out any other possibilities.
Conclusion
Coughing can be a symptom of many underlying medical conditions, some of which are quite serious. If your cough does not resolve with home treatment or if it worsens over time, it is important to seek medical advice. Knowing the cause of your coughing can help you get the right treatment and reduce any discomfort or disruption in your daily activities. By understanding the three surprising reasons why your cough won’t quit, you can take steps toward feeling better as soon as possible.
