Chronic Cough That Won’t Go Away? It Might Not Be Just a Cold

Have you been coughing for weeks, thinking it’s just a stubborn cold? You’re not alone. Many people dismiss a lingering cough, but if it lasts more than eight weeks, it might not be a simple infection. Let’s explore what could be causing it and when to see a doctor.

Common Causes of a Chronic Cough

1. Postnasal Drip

Mucus from your nose drips down your throat, triggering a cough. This can happen due to allergies, infections, or sinus issues. Common allergens include dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold. If your cough worsens at night, postnasal drip may be the culprit.

2. Asthma

Asthma-related coughing often comes with wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Some people experience cough-variant asthma, where coughing is the only symptom. This is often triggered by exercise, cold air, or allergens.

3. GERD (Acid Reflux)

​Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause chronic coughing, especially at night. Stomach acid irritates the esophagus and airways, leading to persistent cough, heartburn, or even voice changes.

4. Smoking or Pollution

​Exposure to cigarette smoke, industrial fumes, or poor air quality can inflame your airways, causing a lingering cough. Long-term exposure increases the risk of developing chronic bronchitis or even COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

5. Underlying Infections

​Conditions like pneumonia, tuberculosis, or pertussis (whooping cough) can lead to prolonged coughing. Bacterial infections may require antibiotics, while viral infections need time to resolve.

6. Medication Side Effects

​Some blood pressure medications, particularly ACE inhibitors, can cause a dry, persistent cough. If you’ve started a new medication and developed a chronic cough, talk to your doctor about possible alternatives.

When to See a Doctor

A chronic cough isn’t always a sign of something serious, but there are red flags you shouldn’t ignore. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)

• Unexplained weight loss

• Difficulty breathing or chest pain

• Persistent hoarseness or voice changes

• Fever lasting more than a few days

Conclusion

A doctor can perform tests like chest X-rays, CT scans, or lung function tests to determine the cause. Early diagnosis can prevent more serious complications.