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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Persistent Cough?

I have been having this persistent cough doctor does not have an opening until June I thought maybe my allergies have come back after several years but I have been taking zyrtec, bendaryl and its just a short relief time. Its not a cold cough and i get these coughing fits no wheezing can that be a sign of heart or ulcer issues have a high stressed job and when I anything does come up its just phlem (sp?) but clear. I feel like there is something stuck in my throat I am getting a little concerned now.
Fri, 9 Jun 2023
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,

There are many potential causes of a persistent cough, including allergies, asthma, acid reflux, infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even certain medications. Since you have already been taking allergy medications and not experiencing much relief, it is possible that your cough may be due to something other than allergies.

A persistent cough can also be a symptom of heart or gastrointestinal issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or an ulcer. However, these conditions typically present with other symptoms as well, such as chest pain or burning in the case of GERD or abdominal pain and discomfort in the case of an ulcer. It is important to note that stress can also exacerbate coughing, so your high-stress job could potentially be contributing to your symptoms.

Since you have been experiencing a persistent cough for some time, it would be best to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. In the meantime, you could try using a humidifier, staying hydrated, and avoiding triggers such as smoke or strong odors to help alleviate your symptoms.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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General & Family Physician Dr. Priyanka's  Response
Hi,

A persistent cough can have various causes, including allergies, viral or bacterial infections, asthma, acid reflux, smoking, and medication side effects. It is also possible that stress can exacerbate a cough. However, without further examination and tests, it is difficult to determine the exact cause of your cough.

It is unlikely that a persistent cough without wheezing is a sign of heart or ulcer issues, but it's always best to consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis. A doctor can help rule out any serious conditions and suggest appropriate treatment options.

In the meantime, you could try to alleviate your symptoms by staying hydrated, avoiding triggers such as smoke and pollutants, using a humidifier, and propping up your head while sleeping. Over-the-counter cough medicines may provide temporary relief, but they do not treat the underlying cause of the cough.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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What Causes Persistent Cough?

Hi, There are many potential causes of a persistent cough, including allergies, asthma, acid reflux, infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even certain medications. Since you have already been taking allergy medications and not experiencing much relief, it is possible that your cough may be due to something other than allergies. A persistent cough can also be a symptom of heart or gastrointestinal issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or an ulcer. However, these conditions typically present with other symptoms as well, such as chest pain or burning in the case of GERD or abdominal pain and discomfort in the case of an ulcer. It is important to note that stress can also exacerbate coughing, so your high-stress job could potentially be contributing to your symptoms. Since you have been experiencing a persistent cough for some time, it would be best to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. In the meantime, you could try using a humidifier, staying hydrated, and avoiding triggers such as smoke or strong odors to help alleviate your symptoms. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician