Chronic cough

Definition

A chronic cough is defined as a cough that lasts for more than eight weeks and can significantly impact a person's quality of life. It can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, often involving the respiratory system or gastrointestinal tract. This term relates to disorders that may arise due to respiratory issues, such as obstructive or restrictive pulmonary disorders, as well as gastrointestinal issues, including reflux, which can lead to aspiration and subsequent coughing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chronic cough can be triggered by several factors including smoking, allergies, asthma, and infections.
2. It can often lead to complications such as sleep disturbances, fatigue, and even depression due to its persistent nature.
3. Diagnosing the cause of chronic cough may require a thorough medical history and various tests including chest X-rays or lung function tests.
4. Treatment options vary widely based on the underlying cause and may include lifestyle changes, medications, or even surgical interventions.
5. A chronic cough due to GERD often responds well to lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes and medication aimed at reducing stomach acid.

Review Questions

• What are some common underlying causes of chronic cough related to respiratory disorders?
  • Common causes of chronic cough related to respiratory disorders include asthma, where airway inflammation leads to coughing; Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which results in persistent coughing due to damaged airways; and infections like bronchitis. These conditions can cause irritation and inflammation in the lungs or airways, resulting in a prolonged cough that may require targeted treatment.
• How does gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) contribute to the development of chronic cough?
  • GERD contributes to chronic cough by allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, which can irritate the throat and trigger a cough reflex. This type of cough often occurs at night or after meals when the acid reflux is most likely. Individuals with GERD-related chronic cough may experience additional symptoms such as heartburn or a sour taste in their mouth, indicating the need for management of both the cough and reflux symptoms.
• Evaluate the impact of a chronic cough on a patient's overall health and quality of life.
  • A chronic cough can severely impact a patient's overall health and quality of life by causing sleep disturbances, leading to fatigue and reduced productivity during daily activities. Furthermore, persistent coughing can result in social isolation or embarrassment for patients, affecting their mental well-being. The physical strain from continuous coughing may also lead to complications such as rib fractures or urinary incontinence, making it essential for healthcare providers to address both the cough and its psychosocial effects.

Related terms

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): A chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, often causing symptoms like heartburn and cough.

Asthma: A chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that causes recurrent breathing problems, including coughing and wheezing.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A progressive lung disease characterized by long-term breathing problems and poor airflow, often leading to chronic cough.