Home / Health / Why doesn’t a cough go away? Get to know the 5 causes
Kuatbaca – Coughing is the body’s natural response to clear irritants and secretions from the lungs to avoid infection. Usually, coughs will heal within two to three days. However, if your cough does not go away for a long time, this could be a sign of a more serious health problem. This article will discuss five common reasons why coughs can last longer and not heal.
1. Prolonged Cough
A cough that lasts more than 11 days can be a sign of certain diseases. When the cough lasts for eight weeks or more, this condition is known as chronic cough. There are several reasons why a cough can last so long and not go away.
2. Asma
Asthma is a chronic health problem that affects the airways, causing them to become swollen and inflamed. This condition makes the lungs more susceptible to irritants or allergens, which can trigger coughing. Coughs associated with asthma may come and go, depending on the season or certain environmental factors. For example, coughs can worsen when exposed to cold air, chemicals, or certain fragrances.
3. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by viruses, fungi or bacteria. Cough is a typical symptom of pneumonia. The characteristics of a cough in pneumonia are usually a dry cough or cough with phlegm with green, yellow or even bloody mucus. Apart from coughing, other symptoms of pneumonia include fever, excessive sweating, and sometimes difficulty breathing.
4. Allergies
Allergies can cause irritation of the airways, which can result in a chronic dry cough. Coughs associated with allergies often become worse in certain seasons or environments, such as during hot weather, dry seasons, or when the air is cold. Apart from coughing, other allergy symptoms can include sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy skin.
5. Chronic Gastric Acid Disease (GERD)
Chronic acid reflux disease, or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), can cause acidic fluid from the stomach to flow back into the esophagus, which connects the stomach and throat. This condition can cause prolonged irritation of the throat and result in a continuous cough. On the other hand, coughing can also make GERD worse.
6. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a condition that can inhibit air flow from the lungs, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis can cause a cough with phlegm, while emphysema can cause shortness of breath and damage to the air sacs in the lungs. Most COPD sufferers are active smokers or former smokers.
If you have a cough for more than three weeks, it is very important to consult a doctor immediately. Especially if the cough is accompanied by symptoms such as loss of appetite, excessive phlegm production, persistent fatigue, excessive sweating at night, and unexplained weight loss. Also, seek medical help immediately if the cough does not go away and is accompanied by a fever above 38 degrees Celsius, coughing up blood, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
A cough that doesn’t go away can be a sign of a health problem that needs to be identified and treated quickly. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you have a cough that lasts a long time and doesn’t go away. The health of your lungs and airways is very important, and proper diagnosis will aid in effective treatment.
2023-10-17 07:21:13
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