Common Causes of Chronic Cough and When to See a Doctor
Introduction
A cough may seem like a minor inconvenience—something that comes and goes with a cold or seasonal allergy. But what if it lingers? What if it disrupts your sleep, interferes with your work, or comes with shortness of breath or chest discomfort?
A chronic cough can be a warning sign that something more serious is affecting your respiratory system. If your cough has lasted more than 3–4 weeks, especially in a city like Kolkata where pollution and allergens are common, it may be time to consult a cough specialist near you.
In this blog, we explore the common causes of persistent cough, when to seek medical attention, and how a pulmonologist in Kolkata like Dr. Ayush Goel can help you breathe and live better.
What is a Chronic Cough?
A chronic cough is defined as a cough that persists:
For more than 8 weeks in adults
More than 4 weeks in children
Unlike acute coughs that typically resolve on their own, chronic cough may indicate an underlying issue involving your airways, lungs, throat, or digestive system.
Symptoms that often accompany chronic cough:
Fatigue or disturbed sleep
Hoarseness
Chest discomfort or rib pain
Headaches due to continuous coughing
Anxiety about the cause or social embarrassment
If your cough lingers longer than expected, it’s more than just a nuisance—it’s a signal your body is giving you that should not be ignored.
Common Causes of Chronic Cough
Chronic cough can arise from several treatable conditions. Here are some of the most common culprits:
1. Asthma
One of the leading causes, especially if:
The cough worsens at night
It’s triggered by cold air, dust, or exercise
It’s accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath
Often, this is known as cough-variant asthma, where cough is the main symptom.
2. Postnasal Drip (Upper Airway Cough Syndrome)
This occurs when mucus from the nose and sinuses drips down the back of the throat, irritating the airways and triggering a cough reflex. It’s common with allergies, sinusitis, or cold weather.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
In GERD, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, irritating the throat and causing a persistent, dry cough—especially after meals or while lying down.
4. Chronic Bronchitis (COPD-related)
Seen often in smokers or those with a history of exposure to pollutants. The cough is typically wet (producing phlegm) and is worse in the mornings.
5. Lung Infections or Serious Lung Diseases
Pneumonia, tuberculosis, or even early signs of lung cancer can present as a persistent cough. These require urgent evaluation by a pulmonologist.
Common causes of chronic cough
When to See a Doctor for Chronic Cough
While a short-term cough might not be alarming, the following red flags suggest that you need to consult a lung specialist in Kolkata without delay:
Cough lasting more than 8 weeks
Coughing up blood
Accompanied by shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain
Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
Fever that persists along with cough
A history of smoking, asthma, or TB exposure
Ignoring these signs can delay necessary treatment and worsen your condition.
How a Pulmonologist Can Help
A cough specialist like Dr. Ayush Goel starts with a detailed evaluation to identify the root cause of your symptoms. Depending on your case, here’s what you can expect:
1. Comprehensive History & Examination
The doctor will ask about the cough’s pattern, triggers, duration, associated symptoms, and your environment.
2. Lung Function Tests
Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) measures how well your lungs are working and helps in diagnosing asthma or COPD.
3. Chest Imaging
X-rays or CT scans help detect infections, inflammation, or masses in the lungs.
4. Additional Tests (if needed)
Allergy testing
Acid reflux evaluation
Bronchoscopy (in complex or unexplained cases)
5. Personalized Treatment
Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause:
Inhalers or bronchodilators for asthma
Antihistamines or nasal sprays for allergies
Antacids or proton-pump inhibitors for reflux
Antibiotics or steroids if infections or inflammation are present
Patient performing a pulmonary function test (spirometry)
Why Choose Dr. Ayush Goel for Chronic Cough Evaluation in Kolkata?
With so many potential causes for chronic cough, you need a specialist who combines experience with modern diagnostic tools. Dr. Ayush Goel is one of Kolkata’s most trusted pulmonologists, known for his skill in diagnosing complex respiratory issues.
Credentials:
DM in Pulmonary Medicine (AIIMS New Delhi)
MRCP (UK) Respiratory SCE Certified
European Diploma in Respiratory Medicine
National award-winning researcher with 10+ global publications
Offers advanced testing including spirometry, bronchoscopy, and HRCT evaluation
His patient-first approach means he doesn’t just treat symptoms—he looks at your overall respiratory health and lifestyle to create a treatment plan tailored to you.
Final Tips Before You Go
A persistent cough should never be ignored. Whether it’s asthma, reflux, allergies, or something more serious, early diagnosis is the key to effective treatment.
If you’ve been searching for a "cough specialist near me" or a pulmonologist in Kolkata, you're in good hands with Dr. Ayush Goel. He offers the right mix of diagnostic precision, compassionate care, and up-to-date treatments to help you breathe freely again.
Book your consultation today.
