Are you struggling with a chronic cough that seems to linger on and on? Chronic cough syndrome is a frustrating and uncomfortable condition affecting millions of people worldwide.
While many people assume that coughing is simply a sign of a cold or flu, there are actually a number of underlying causes that could be contributing to your chronic cough.
In this article, we’ll explore seven surprising causes of chronic cough syndrome that you may never have heard of before.
Also Read: Good health: 6 things to get checked in your 40’s
What is Chronic Cough Syndrome?
Chronic cough syndrome is a condition that is defined as a cough that persists for more than eight weeks in adults and four weeks in children. It can be a symptom of an underlying health condition, or it can be caused by environmental factors such as smoking or air pollution.
Chronic cough syndrome can be frustrating and uncomfortable, and it can interfere with daily life. It is important to identify the underlying cause of the cough in order to treat it effectively.
Common Causes of Chronic Cough Syndrome
Before we dive into the surprising causes of chronic cough syndrome, it’s important to understand some of the more common causes of this condition. These include:
- Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. It can also cause a persistent cough, especially at night or early in the morning.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a digestive disorder that causes stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. This can lead to a persistent cough, especially after meals or when lying down.
- Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip occurs when mucus from the nose drips down into the back of the throat, causing irritation and coughing. This can be caused by allergies, a sinus infection, or other respiratory conditions.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is a group of progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause difficulty breathing and a chronic cough. It is typically caused by long-term exposure to air pollution or smoking.
Surprising Causes of Chronic Cough Syndrome
Now that we’ve covered some of the more common causes of chronic cough syndrome, let’s explore some of the surprising causes you may not have known about.
- ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors are medications that are commonly used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. While they are generally safe, they can cause a persistent cough in some people.
This cough can be dry and hacking, and it typically goes away when the medication is stopped.
- Exposure to Toxins
Another surprising cause of chronic cough is exposure to toxic chemicals. This takes us back to the popular 9/11 attack in the U.S., where many people died due to the release of harmful toxins. And many people who were present at the time of the attack are still suffering from different health conditions including chronic cough.
So, if you also think your chronic cough is due to exposure to chemicals during 9/11, you have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills and other losses. Just make sure to hire a lawyer since navigating legal complexities with 9/11 lawyers becomes easy, and chances are you’ll get your fund at the earliest.
- Lung Cancer
While most people associate coughing with lung cancer, not all cases of lung cancer cause a cough. However, in some cases, a persistent cough may be one of the first signs of lung cancer. Other symptoms of lung cancer may include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
- Heart Failure
Heart failure occurs when the heart is no longer able to pump blood effectively. This can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, leading to a persistent cough. Other symptoms of heart failure may include shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and feet.
- Pulmonary Fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition in which the tissue in the lungs becomes thick and stiff, making it difficult to breathe. It can also cause a persistent cough, as well as other symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain.
- Habit Cough
Habit cough, also known as psychogenic cough, is a type of cough that is not caused by any underlying medical condition. It is typically seen in children, and it is thought to be caused by stress or anxiety. The cough may be dry and persistent, and it typically goes away when the child is distracted.
Final Thoughts
While chronic cough syndrome can be frustrating and uncomfortable, it is important to identify the underlying cause in order to treat it effectively.
By understanding some of the surprising causes of chronic cough syndrome, you can take steps to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
