A persistent cough can be more than just an annoyance—it can significantly affect your daily life. Whether it keeps you up at night, makes it hard to talk at work, or leads to discomfort in your chest, understanding the reasons behind your chronic cough is the first step toward finding relief.
Tara Carr, MD, an allergy and immunology expert with Banner Health, shares insight into common triggers and treatments for persistent coughing.
Why am I coughing?
There are several common causes of a chronic cough. These can range from environmental factors to underlying health conditions. Some of the most common causes include:
Postnasal drip
Postnasal drip is a common culprit for a persistent cough. This condition occurs when excess mucus from your nose drips down the back of your throat, often following an infection or a cold. It’s also common in people with seasonal allergies. The mucus can irritate your throat, leading to frequent coughing.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition that affects your airways, making it difficult to breathe. When asthma is triggered by an irritant or during exercise, it can lead to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Acid reflux (GERD)
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid or contents back up into your esophagus. This can cause irritation and a persistent cough, particularly after eating or while lying down.
Is it time to get evaluated for symptoms of acid reflux? Take our free assessment.
Allergies and air quality
Poor air quality and allergens can also trigger coughing. Dr. Carr explains that during the spring and fall, pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is a common cause of coughing.
During flu season, viral infections may lead to sinus issues and coughing. In dry, windy areas, dust storms can irritate the lungs and cause a cough.
Infections, tumors or medications
Other less common causes of chronic cough can include lingering infections, such as a cold or respiratory infection, tumors, or even medications like ACE inhibitors (used for high blood pressure). If your cough persists for more than a week, worsens over time, or is accompanied by additional symptoms, it’s important to consult with a doctor.
How can I stop coughing?
When dealing with a persistent cough, home remedies like herbal teas, soothing liquids and over-the-counter (OTC) cough medications may provide temporary relief. However, for chronic cough, these remedies may only treat the symptoms, not the underlying cause.
Visiting a doctor is essential to identifying the root cause of your cough. Dr. Carr explained that doctors often assess the characteristics of the cough (e.g., dry or wet, constant or intermittent) to pinpoint the cause. In some cases, your doctor may order an X-ray or other tests to gain a more detailed picture of your health. Based on your diagnosis, your doctor may recommend medications like antihistamines, nasal sprays or prescription treatments tailored to address the cause of your cough.
Will I ever stop coughing?
Chronic coughing can be more than just an inconvenience—it can disrupt your daily life. If your cough is affecting your sleep, work, or causing discomfort such as chest pain or muscle soreness, it's time to seek help. Persistent coughing may lead to tension headaches or upset stomachs from the strain on your body.
However, there’s good news: you don’t have to live with a persistent cough. By working with your doctor to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment, you can start to feel better soon. Don’t let a chronic cough control your life—schedule a visit with a Banner Health doctor today. With the right treatment, you'll be back to sleeping, talking and enjoying your day without interruption.
Recommended reading
- Here’s Why You Might Have a Bad Tasting Cough
- What Is a Smoker’s Cough and Tips to Get Rid of It
- How the Weather and the Climate Can Affect Your Lungs
