Chronic Cough

at Allergy & ENT Associates of Middle TN

A chronic cough is defined as one that lasts eight weeks or longer. More than simply an annoyance, a lingering cough can disrupt your sleep and affect your work. It may be accompanied by other symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, runny nose, congestion and heartburn.



If you have a persistent cough that does not disappear after a reasonable amount of time, make an appointment with your physician for an evaluation.

What Causes Chronic Cough?

A cough is your body’s way of expelling a substance that is irritating the air passages. When cells lining the air passages become irritated, they trigger air in the lungs to be forced out under high pressure.


Chronic coughing can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:



  • Postnasal drip


  • Asthma


  • Allergies


  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)


  • Upper respiratory tract infections


  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (includes bronchitis and emphysema)


  • Pertussis (whooping cough)


  • Air pollution


  • ACE inhibitors (found in some medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease)


Smokers are most at risk for developing a chronic cough, as are those exposed to secondhand cigarette smoke.

Symptoms of Chronic Cough

You should contact your doctor if your cough:



  • Is accompanied by fever


  • Produces excessive phlegm


  • Includes blood


  • Fails to improve after other symptoms have disappeared


  • Interferes with daily activities or sleep


  • Causes difficulty breathing

How Is Chronic Cough Treated?

Your doctor will discuss your medical history and give you a physical exam before administering diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your chronic cough. Common tests include imaging tests (X-rays or CT scan), lung function tests, lab tests, and endoscopic tests of the trachea, nostrils and esophagus.


Once the diagnosis is made, treatment can begin. If medications are prescribed, they may include:


  • Antihistamines


  • Decongestants


  • Asthma drugs


  • Antibiotics


  • Acid blockers


  • Cough suppressants


Home remedies and lifestyle changes may also be effective, such as quitting smoking or adjusting your diet to eliminate foods that trigger acid reflux.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long does a cough have to last to be considered chronic?

    A cough is considered chronic when it lasts eight weeks or longer.

  • What are the most common causes of chronic cough?

    Common causes include postnasal drip, asthma, allergies, GERD (acid reflux), respiratory infections, and smoking or secondhand smoke exposure.

  • When should I see a doctor for a chronic cough?

    You should seek medical evaluation if your cough lasts longer than expected, disrupts sleep, affects daily life, causes difficulty breathing, or is accompanied by fever, blood, or excessive phlegm.

Call Allergy & ENT Associates at (615) 889-8802 to learn more or schedule an appointment.