"How To Handle A Persistent Cough" - Tula Karras
Respiratory tract infections such as colds and flu are the leading reason for short-term coughs. Older adults are slightly more likely to develop acute-bronchitis - an inflammation of the bronchial tubes that's marked by coughing - as a result. There are several possible reasons for a persistent cough. Mucus production may continue after infection, only gradually fading away. In some people, a respiratory infection can cause prolonged airway irritation - which can be accompanied by a persistent cough. Or airways may become so sensitized by coughing during infection that simple breathing or talking can set off coughing episodes. "This sensitization can trigger coughing, and - in a vicious cycle - coughing can further sensitize the nerves," said Neil Schachter, MD, professor of medicine, pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. When a cough lasts for eight weeks or longer, it's considered chronic. See your doctor if you have a cough that persists for this long and are unsure why.
- Neil E. Schachter, MD, Professor, Medicine, Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Pediatrics, Preventive Medicine, Environmental Medicine and Public Heath, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai