Tips for a Cough That Does Not Quit

The Cough that Does Not Quit

When it comes to a chronic cough, we have all been there, and it is not fun. But what if that persistent cough just will not let up? That is where Upper Airway Cough Syndrome, or UACS, comes into play. Dr. Aaron Workman of the highly rated Chambers Medical Group, an auto injury care medical program in the Lexington area, helps us understand UACS. Your upper airways are like a mucus factory, and at times may go into overproduction mode. This mucus-production can be triggered by various issues.

1. Allergies: Ever had your body react to pollen, dust, or an animal friend by going into mucus overdrive? That is allergies for you, and they can lead to UACS.
2. Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses, often caused by infections or allergies, can contribute.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): If stomach acid decides to take a detour up into your throat, it can trigger your body’s mucus-making skills.
4. Environmental Irritants: Sometimes, inhaling things like smoke or strong smells can leave your upper airways feeling quite irritated, resulting in extra mucus.
5. Infections: Viruses or bacteria out to make you sick might also bring along UACS as an unwelcome guest.

The main symptom of UACS is a chronic cough that typically worsens at night or in the early morning. Other common symptoms include:

1. Throat Clearing: Ever felt the urge to clear your throat repeatedly? Frequent throat clearing is a typical response to the sensation of excess mucus dripping down the back of the throat.
2. Sore Throat: The continuous presence of mucus in the throat can result in a persistent sore throat.
3. Hoarseness: This condition can lead to hoarseness or a raspy voice due to irritation of the vocal cords.
4. Postnasal Drip: Patients often complain of the feeling of mucus constantly dripping down their throat.
5. Weird Cough: It may make you cough on and off, but it is not your typical “I caught a cold” cough.

Diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation of a patient’s medical history and symptoms. Doctors may perform various tests, including a light to look into the nose, advanced imaging and multiple allergy or lab tests to determine what is contributing to the mucous.

Managing the cough often involves addressing the underlying causes and relieving symptoms. The game plan could consist of allergy medicines, the wonderful “neti pot” style saline rinses, possible GERD medicines if you need to detour the acid, cough medicines or even antibiotics if infection is present. Lastly, adopting healthy habits like not smoking, avoiding irritants, staying hydrated, and using a humidifier can all contribute to a happier, cough free day. It can be annoying, but the good news is that it can be managed and treated. The key is to uncover the underlying causes and choose the right treatments. If you or someone you know is experiencing chronic coughing or related symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.

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Have you been in a car accident? If you or somebody you know has been in a car accident, be sure that you seek medical attention from a car accident doctor or car accident chiropractor to treat your injuries. Visit Chambers Medical Group  to receive world-class medical treatment for your injuries.

Chambers Medical Group has car accident medical clinics in the following locations:

• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Tampa
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Plant City
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Brandon
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Lakeland
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Sarasota
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Louisville
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Lexington
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Florence