A chronic cough is a cough that lasts more than 8 weeks and it’s not something uncommon. More than 40% non-smokers in Europe and USA have reported a chronic cough.
If you have a chronic cough, then you must visit your doctor because he’s the one who can tell you what’s behind your terrible cough. Your chronic cough can be caused by many reasons. A study done in 2006, women with an average age of 48 who had a cough that lasted more than 6 months, 39% had asthma, 9% had chronic upper airway cough syndrome, 9% gastroesophageal reflux disease and 11% had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is a serious disease that includes both bronchitis and emphysema. People who smoke are at higher risk of getting COPD.
Keep on reading and learn more about COPD and the causes of chronic cough!
1. Asthma and Allergies
Asthma usually develops in childhood and it’s a chronic lung disease which causes inflammation and swelling of the airways in the lungs. Some of the most characteristic asthma symptoms include shortness of breath, tightness and wheezing. Asthma can be triggered by colds, cigarette smoke, airborne irritants and certain foods.
Inhaling pollen, pet dander, dust and other airborne irritants can cause allergic rhinitis, even in people that don’t have asthma.
2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or Known as Acid Reflux (GERD)
GERD is a disease of the esophagus and stomach, which occurs when your stomach acid backs up into your esophagus. The most common symptoms include heartburn, coughing, chest pain and wheezing. GERD is a common cause of a chronic cough.
Read more: 6 Natural Remedies For Treating Ulcers and Acid Reflux
3. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is a lung condition that includes emphysema and bronchitis and is one of the most common causes of chronic cough. COPD happens when your airways become inflamed or damaged. Your lungs start to produce excess mucus which your body tries to get rid of by coughing.
4. Air Pollution
Different types of irritants and pollutants in the air can be a reason for your chronic cough. Even a short term exposure can result in phlegm, lung irritation and cough. Fumes are also considered to exacerbate the symptoms of asthma and allergies.
5. Acute Bronchitis
Acute bronchitis is a condition when the passageways in your lungs become inflamed and infected. Bronchitis can also cause fever, ache, sores, chills, chest congestion and coughing. Although some of the symptoms usually disappear in a few days, your cough can persist for weeks.