Persistent cough

Persistent or chronic cough is a relatively common problem in adults. A nationwide survey reports that the most common causes of prolonged cough are post-nasal drip from sinusitis, tuberculosis, allergies, bronchial asthma and acid reflux in the stomach. for smokers, it could be from chronic bronchitis or lung cancer, for others, the causes are unidentifiable.
Chronic sinusitis often results from allergic rhinitis or an unresolved upper respiratory tract infection. When the sinus becomes inflamed, it causes a drip inside the nose or into the throat, which triggers irritating coughs, especially after the individual lies down at night. Allergies inside the nose (allergic rhinitis) can also affect the throat.
Cough may also be an early sign of bronchial asthma, which is often triggered by allergens like dust mites, molds and pollens. A cough that goes beyond two weeks may indicate possible pulmonary tuberculosis. A sputum exam can verify tuberculosis bacteria. A chest x-ray is helpful too.
People who smoke are prone to developing chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis manifests as prolonged productive cough. It is not uncommon too that lung cancer is diagnosed because of a prolonged cough.
Acid reflux or GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease) is often suspected when there is a history of hyperacidity, burping or sour taste in the throat.
Sinusitis can be treated with proper antibiotics to be given for two to three weeks. Based in Dear Doctor section of Health and Home November-December 2009 issue.