Frequent and Treatable Causes of Coughing

Postnasal drip

GERD

Asthma

Are you a nonsmoker who has a puzzling chronic cough?  Some patients live with an unexplained cough for years. 

In a study at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, forty different causes of chronic cough were identified in a group of older adults. The most frequent causes of coughing were postnasal drip syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and asthma.

Coughing due to Postnasal Drip

Coughing from postnasal drip may accompany frequent throat clearing or the sensation of something dripping down your throat. 

Coughing due to GERD

In GERD, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and can cause coughing; you may also have heartburn and/or a sour taste in your mouth. However, many patients have "silent reflux" with no sensation of heartburn.

Coughing due to Asthma

If you also feel short of breath or wheeze, asthma may be causing your cough. Coughing may be the ONLY symptom of asthma or GERD.

Combination of Causes

Coughing can be from a combination of these causes and affect ALL age groups.  All three causes can be treated, if recognized.

Study from Archives of Internal Medicine, June,1998
Article adapted from The Breather, Fall,1998

Contacting us

Please CALL our office (828-322-1275 or 1-800-432-5015) if you or your child is a patient at Hickory Allergy & Asthma Clinic, and 
1.  you have a question about your medical care.
2.  you are reporting or asking about symptoms. 
3.  you have a question about your medicines or need a refill. 
4.  you have a question about your account.
5.  you wish to schedule, reschedule or cancel an appointment.

For problems or questions regarding this web site contact [Email].

If you have a general allergy or asthma related question, address that to haac@wheezy.com.  We answer e-mailed questions periodically, but not necessarily daily.  

Date last updated:  July 14, 2008
Copyright 1999-2008