Chronic cough in Barranquilla, Colombia

What is chronic cough?

It is a cough lasting more than eight weeks in adults or more than four weeks in children. You should not just get used to it: it almost always has a cause that can be identified and treated.

What are the most common causes in adults?

Postnasal drip from rhinitis or sinusitis, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux, smoking and COPD, and certain blood pressure drugs called ACE inhibitors. Less often, bronchiectasis, tuberculosis, interstitial lung disease or lung cancer.

How is it investigated?

With a detailed history, physical exam, chest X-ray and spirometry. Depending on suspicion, allergy tests, nose and sinus evaluation, reflux studies, CT or bronchoscopy. Often a treatment aimed at the most likely cause is tried and the response assessed.

Which warning signs should not be ignored?

Coughing up blood, weight loss, fever or night sweats, shortness of breath, persistent hoarseness, being a current or former smoker over 40, or contact with someone with tuberculosis. With any of these, see a doctor soon.

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