Chronic Cough
A short-term cough comes with a common cold and disappears within two to three weeks. However, when a cough persists for more than eight weeks in an adult or for more than four weeks in a child, it becomes a chronic cough and it could be indicative of another health problem. Southwest Asthma & Allergy Associates diagnoses and manages chronic cough for patients across Houston.
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Common Symptoms of Chronic Cough
Chronic cough symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause. Some individuals experience a persistent dry cough, while others produce mucus regularly. Throat irritation and frequent throat clearing are also commonly reported. Since the cause is not the same for everyone, symptoms and presentation can vary widely from patient to patient.
- Cough that lasts several weeks
- Dry or wet cough
- Sore throat
- Frequent throat clearing
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest discomfort
- Hoarse voice
- Poor sleep due to coughing
- Feeling tired
Common Causes of Chronic Cough
Asthma
Cough-variant asthma is a recognized subtype that causes a chronic cough with little to no wheezing. It comes from swelling in the airways. Over time, this can make it harder to breathe with ease.
Allergies
Allergies, whether seasonal or year-round, often cause mucus to drip down the throat. This drip irritates the throat and leads to coughing. Symptoms tend to get worse during high pollen times or after contact with a trigger.
Respiratory Conditions
Postnasal drip caused by sinus swelling, clinically known as upper airway cough syndrome, can keep a cough going long after a cold clears up. So can the after-effects of a cold or a bout of bronchitis. These issues often overlap, which makes it harder to find the cause without a checkup.
Other Contributing Factors
Other potential sources include acid reflux, inhalation of airborne irritants, and certain medications. Blood pressure medicines called ACE inhibitors are examples. Finding the right cause is a key step in building a treatment plan that works.
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Our Diagnostic Approach
Medical History Review
We start by asking how long the cough has lasted. Our team reviews your medical history, the medications you take, and any past allergic reactions. We also ask about things in your home or work that could be a factor.
Physical Examination
A hands-on exam lets us check your lungs, throat, and how you breathe. This gives us a clearer view of what might be behind your chronic cough.
Pulmonary Function Testing
We may use a breathing test called spirometry to check how well your lungs work. This test can support an asthma diagnosis, though additional testing, such as a bronchial challenge test, is sometimes needed to confirm cough-variant asthma.
Allergy Evaluation
When we think allergies may be the cause, we test for common triggers. Knowing the exact trigger helps us build a plan that fits you.
Additional Diagnostic Testing
In some cases, a chest X-ray or a referral to another doctor may help. We only order more tests when they are truly needed for your case.
Personalized Care Plan
Once we find the likely cause of your chronic cough, we build a treatment plan around it. We also track your symptoms over time and change the plan as needed.
Treatment for Chronic Cough
Treating the Underlying Cause
Treatment depends on what’s causing the cough. This may mean allergy care, asthma care, or care for another health issue tied to it.
Medication Management
Based on your diagnosis, treatment may include inhalers, allergy pills, nasal sprays, or other medicines. We build each plan around your test results.
Trigger Reduction
We also share simple tips to help you avoid things that trigger your cough. Staying away from known triggers at home or work can bring real relief for many patients.
Follow-Up Care
We check in with you often to see how your symptoms are responding. We change your treatment plan over time based on how you respond.
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Accessible Treatment for Everyone
Southwest Asthma & Allergy Associates has served the Houston community for over 40 years with a commitment to accessible healthcare. We accept Medicaid, CHIP, and most major insurance plans, such as Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Guardian, Humana, MetLife, and UnitedHealthcare. For patients with no insurance, we also offer SWAAA Round-Up, a flexible payment plan that helps keep chronic cough treatment within reach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Adults should see a specialist if a cough has lasted eight weeks or more. For children, four weeks or more is a good reason to book a checkup.
This depends on what’s causing the cough and how your body reacts to treatment. Our specialists will give you a better idea once they know the cause.
Yes, exercise can bring on a cough in some patients. This is more likely when asthma or airway sensitivity is part of the picture. Spotting this pattern guides the right treatment plan.
Schedule Your Chronic Cough Consultation Today
A cough that won’t go away is worth a closer look. Contact Southwest Asthma & Allergy Associates to schedule a chronic cough checkup. We’ll help you start on a plan built around your symptoms.
