Chronic cough is the most common reason for health care visits. Chronic cough means a persistent cough that lasts for more than 8 weeks in adults (or more than 4 weeks in children). It is not a disease itself but a symptom of an underlying condition, such as allergies, asthma, acid reflux, or lung infections. If left untreated, it can affect sleep, daily activities and overall quality of life. If your cough is not improving with standard treatments or home remedies then you should consult an Ear, Nose, Throat (ENT) specialist.
Common ENT Causes of Chronic Cough
Chronic cough, lasting more than eight weeks, is often linked to issues in the ear, nose, throat. Irritation in the airway, excess mucus production, and inflammation can contribute to persistent coughing. In some cases, conditions affecting the throat or voice box may trigger a lingering cough. CHRONIC COUGH: A
Comprehensive Guide For Diagnosis And Treatment DWARKA, DELHI Identifying the root cause through a thorough evaluation is key to effective management and relief.
According to Dr. Anu Goyal chronic cough can have several underlying causes including: –
1.Postnasal Drip (Upper Airway Cough Syndrome)
- One of the most common causes of chronic cough.
- Caused by allergies rhinitis, sinusitis, or non-allergic rhinitis, leading to mucus dripping down the throat.
SYMPTOMS: Frequent throat clearing, nasal congestion, a tickling sensation in the throat.
2.Chronic Sinusitis
- Long-term sinus inflammation leads to thick mucus buildup and irritation in the throat.
SYMPTOMS: Facial pressure, nasal blockage, frequent throat clearing, and persistent cough..
3.Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)
- A type of acid reflux where stomach acid irritates the throat and voice box.
- Unlike GERD, it may not cause heartburn but lead to throat discomfort.
SYMPTOMS: Hoarseness, frequent throat clearing, sensation of a lump in the throat, and a dry chronic cough.
4.Tonsil Problems (Chronic Tonsillitis, Tonsil Stones)
- Inflammation or accumulation of debris in the tonsils can cause irritation and a chronic cough
SYMPTOMS: Bad breath, throat discomfort, visible white/ yellow spots on tonsils.
5.Vocal Cord Disorders
- Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD)- Abnormal movement of vocal cords can lead to a chronic, dry cough.
- It can mimic asthma but does not respond to inhalers.
SYMPTOMS: Throat tightness, hoarseness, and difficulty breathing during episodes.
6. Throat Infections & Chronic Pharyngitis
- Recurrent bacterial or viral infections can irritate the throat and trigger persistent coughing.
7.Environmental & Allergic Triggers
- Exposure to smoke, dust, pollution, and strong odors can trigger chronic coughing, especially in people with allergies.
How can an ENT Specialist Help
An ENT specialist Dwarka Delhi may suggest:
- Nasal endoscopy or laryngoscopy to examine the throat and vocal cords.
- Allergy testing to rule out allergic triggers.
- Reflux evaluation if LPR is suspected.
- Imaging tests (CT scan, MRI) if a structural issue or malignancy is suspected.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE AN ENT SPECIALIST?
If you have a chronic cough that does not improve with standard treatments, it’s important to get evaluated. Dr. Anu Goyal, Ent Specialist, recommends seeking medical attention if you experience:
- Cough lasting more than 8 weeks
- Hoarseness or voice changes for more than 2 weeks
- Blood in sputum (hemoptysis)
- Unexplained weight loss or difficulty in swallowing
- A lump in the throat or neck
- Persistent nasal or facial congestion
CONCLUSION
If you have a chronic cough that does not respond, it’s important to consult an ENT specialist for a thorough evaluation. A chronic cough, especially when accompanied by symptoms like hoarseness, sore throat, nasal congestion, or ear pain, may indicate an issue in the upper respiratory tract. If you have a history of sinus infections or allergies, post-nasal drip could be a contributing factor, which an ENT specialist in Dwarka, such as Dr. Anu Goyal, can help diagnose and treat. Additionally, if you experience coughing fits, coughing up blood, difficulty in swallowing, or feel a lump in your throat, seeking medical advice is crucial to rule out serious conditions like reflux, laryngitis, or throat cancer. For expert care, consulting the best ENT doctor in Dwarka, Delhi, Dr. Anu Goyal, ensures you receive the right diagnosis
and effective treatment.
