Chronic Cough Diagnosis & Treatment in the Bay Area
A chronic cough—one that persists for more than eight weeks—is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care and one of the most frustrating conditions to live with. At South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group, our allergists take a systematic, thorough approach to uncovering the allergic and immunologic causes of persistent cough and providing targeted, effective treatment.
Book AppointmentWhat Is Chronic Cough?
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 common contributors to upper airway cough syndrome. Cough-variant asthma presents as a chronic cough without the classic wheezing symptoms, making it easy to miss without specialized testing.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Persistent cough lasting longer than eight weeks
- Cough triggered by cold air, exercise, or allergen exposure
- Nighttime coughing that disrupts sleep
- A sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat
- Frequent throat clearing or hoarseness
- Cough associated with nasal symptoms or seasonal allergy patterns
How We Diagnose
Our evaluation includes a comprehensive medical history and physical examination, spirometry and lung function testing to assess for asthma, exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) testing to identify eosinophilic airway inflammation, allergy skin testing for environmental triggers, and structured diagnostic trials of therapy to help confirm or rule out the most common causes of chronic cough.
Treatment Options at South Bay Allergy
Treatment depends on the underlying 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 whose cough is driven by environmental allergies. We work closely with primary care physicians and other specialists when multiple factors contribute to chronic cough symptoms.
Schedule an Appointment
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.
Book Appointment