Chronic Cough

Coughing is a natural reflex to clear the air passages. The body contains cough receptors that when stimulated, send a message to the brain. This message goes to the voice box and the breathing muscles between the ribs and in the abdomen. When the muscles contract, the pressure increases in the lungs and the glottis, or flap that closes the windpipe to foods, is forced open. The resulting noise is called a cough.

Many times a person with a chronic cough takes it for granted. This is often true of the "smoker's cough" that many smokers come to accept as a part of waking up in the morning. The problem may be more serious than they think.

Any cough that lasts a month or more is chronic. This is true even if it occurs only in the morning, only at night, or only in the winter. It is also true whether it is either a dry cough or a productive cough. A productive cough is one that brings up mucous, sputum or phlegm.

One common cause of a chronic cough is allergy. In some cases, a trial of antihistamine or decongestant drugs may decrease allergic coughing. However, a cough can also signal a chronic airway obstruction or even cancer.

Any cough that causes sustained shortness of breath, severe pain, or brings up blood should prompt seeking medical attention soon.

Taking cough drops or syrups for more than a week may only mask an illness while it gets worse. Long-term use of cough syrups that are purchased without a prescription is usually not helpful and can be dangerous.

Seek medical evaluation if your cough is unexplained or if you have been coughing for a month.

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