Why does my wife cough all the time?
Short answer: A chronic cough often stems from a few common causes such as postnasal drip (upper airway cough syndrome), asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic bronchitis or medication side effects (notably ACE inhibitors). Less common causes include infections, bronchiectasis, or interstitial lung disease, so medical evaluation is important if it persists.
Explanation
Chronic cough (usually defined as lasting more than 8 weeks in adults) is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Postnasal drip irritates the throat and triggers cough receptors; asthma causes airway hyperresponsiveness and wheeze-associated cough; GERD can cause microaspiration or reflux-related laryngeal irritation; chronic bronchitis from smoking or pollution produces mucus and persistent cough. ACE inhibitor medications can cause a dry, persistent cough by increasing bradykinin. Less common but serious causes include pneumonia, tuberculosis, bronchiectasis, lung cancer, or interstitial lung disease. Red flags that require prompt assessment include blood in sputum, unexplained weight loss, high fever, significant shortness of breath, or new/worsening symptoms in someone with smoking history.
Tips
- See a healthcare provider if the cough lasts over 8 weeks or if there are red flags.
- Review current medications—ask about ACE inhibitors and alternatives with the prescriber.
- Address common triggers: treat allergies/postnasal drip, control asthma with inhalers, and manage reflux with diet/antacids or proton pump inhibitors if indicated.
- Avoid smoking and indoor pollutants; use humidifiers if dry air worsens symptoms.
- Tests that may be ordered include chest X-ray, spirometry, ENT evaluation, or trial treatments to identify the cause.
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