Have you had a constant, continuous or persistent cough for weeks? Coughing is a life-preserving reflex that keeps your airway clear. Although annoying, it is essential.
Duration of your cough helps distinguish its cause. Acute coughs, lasting around 2 to 3 weeks, are usually associated with:
Whereas, a chronic cough lasts longer. Some causes of chronic cough are:
- lung cancer
- cystic fibrosis
- pulmonary fibrosis
- Sjogrens syndrome
Also, a chronic cough is a side effect of certain blood pressure medication, such as Capoten, Vesotec, Zestril and Prinivil.
If you have a constant, continuous, persistent, chronic cough coupled with overall “lousy” feeling, see your doctor right away for diagnosis and treatment.