Chronic cough is most commonly caused by upper airway cough syndrome (postnasal drip), asthma, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) — sometimes occurring together. Allergic rhinitis and non-allergic rhinitis are among the most prevalent drivers of upper airway cough syndrome. Cough-variant asthma presents as a chronic cough without the classic wheeze, making it easy to miss without proper testing.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Persistent cough lasting more than eight weeks
- Cough triggered by cold air, exercise, or allergen exposure
- Nighttime cough disrupting sleep
- Sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat
- Hoarseness or throat clearing
- Cough associated with nasal symptoms or seasonal patterns
How We Diagnose
Our evaluation includes a comprehensive history and physical examination, spirometry and lung function testing to assess for asthma, exhaled nitric oxide measurement to detect airway eosinophilic inflammation, allergy skin testing for environmental triggers, and a structured diagnostic trial of targeted therapy to confirm or rule out the most common causes.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the identified cause and may include intranasal corticosteroids and antihistamines for allergic postnasal drip, inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators for asthma or cough-variant asthma, allergen avoidance strategies, and allergen immunotherapy for patients with environment allergy-driven cough. We work collaboratively with primary care physicians and other specialists to address all contributing factors.
Ready to Schedule?
Months of coughing does not have to be your normal. Contact South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group to get to the bottom of your chronic cough and find lasting relief. Call us at (408) 286-1707 or request an appointment online.