Chronic cough: a simple irritation or a red flag?

A chronic cough, defined as a cough that persists for more than eight weeks in adults and four weeks in children, can be more than just a simple irritation.

Although sometimes a normal body response to irritants, chronic cough may signal respiratory or other underlying health problems.

The Elytis, we understand the complexities of this symptom and offer leading pulmonology services to effectively diagnose and treat chronic cough.

When does cough become a cause for concern?

Acute cough, usually caused by a viral respiratory infection, goes away in a few weeks. But when the cough persists and is accompanied by other symptoms, it's time to pay attention:

• Coughing coughing up blood (hemoptysis): may indicate a serious infection, such as tuberculosis, or even lung cancer.
• Coughing with shortness of breath: suggests bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis or other obstructive lung disease.
• Persistent night-time cough: may be a sign of gastro-oesophageal reflux or sleep apnoea.
• Cough accompanied by fever and weight loss: may signal a severe infection or malignancy.
• Cough with purulent expectoration: indicates a bacterial infection or bronchiectasis.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek a medical evaluation.

What investigations are needed?

To identify the cause of chronic cough, your lung specialist may recommend a number of investigations, including:

• Clinical examination: evaluation of the patient's symptoms and medical history.
• Chest X-ray: to visualize the structure of the lungs and identify any abnormalities.
• Spirometry: a lung function test, essential for diagnosing asthma and COPD.
• Polygraphy: to assess sleep-disordered breathing, such as obstructive sleep apnea.
• Bronchoscopy: an invasive procedure that allows direct visualization of the airways and tissue sampling.
• Allergy tests: to identify allergens that may trigger a cough.
• Gastroesophageal reflux tests: if reflux is suspected as the cause of the cough.
• Blood tests and sputum cultures: to identify infections or other abnormalities.

The Elytis, we have state-of-the-art medical technology and a team of specialists who will provide you with an accurate and fast diagnosis.

How can a pulmonologist identify the cause?

A pulmonologist is a medical specialist dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the respiratory system. At Elytisour pulmonologists use a comprehensive approach to identify the cause of chronic cough:

1. Detailed medical history assessment: review symptoms, duration of cough, triggers and medical history.
2. A thorough physical examination: the lungs are auscultated and signs of respiratory distress are assessed.
3. Specific paraclinical investigations: spirometry, chest X-ray, polygraphy and other relevant tests are used to visualize lung function and airway structure.
4. Interpretation of results and accurate diagnosis: our pulmonologists analyze all the data to determine the cause of your cough and develop a personalized treatment plan.

The Elytiswe understand that every patient is unique and that chronic cough can have multiple causes. That's why we approach each case with professionalism and empathy, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

Effective treatments for chronic cough

Treatment of chronic cough depends on the underlying cause. At Elytiswe offer a wide range of therapeutic options:

• Treatment of respiratory infections: antibiotics for bacterial infections, antivirals for viral infections.
• Management of bronchial asthma and COPD: bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, pulmonary rehabilitation therapy.
• Treatment of gastroesophageal reflux: medicines to reduce stomach acidity, lifestyle changes.
• Allergy therapy: antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, immunotherapy.
• Smoking cessation: counseling and nicotine replacement therapy for smoking patients.
• Surgery: in rare cases, such as lung tumors or severe bronchiectasis.

The Elytiswe are committed to providing our patients with the most effective and modern treatments for chronic cough, tailored to individual needs.

Prevent chronic cough

In addition to treating the underlying cause, there are several preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of chronic cough:

• Avoid smoking: quitting smoking is essential for lung health.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: a balanced diet, regular exercise and restful sleep.
• Avoid exposure to respiratory irritants: air pollutants, dust, cigarette smoke.
• Flu and pneumonia vaccination: to reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
• Allergy control: identifying and avoiding trigger allergens.

The Elytiswe encourage our patients to adopt a healthy lifestyle and take preventive measures to protect their respiratory health.

Chronic cough should not be ignored. At Elytisour team of experienced pulmonologists is ready to give you an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Choose Elytis for complete care and long-term respiratory health support.

Latest medical review:

26.03.2025, Dr. Elena Magda Hoescu - Medical Specialist