What can be done to treat a chronic cough?
Treating a chronic cough depends on the underlying cause of the cough.
According to American Academy of Family Physicians
(AAFP), treatment could include:
- Acid reflux – Raise the head of your bed about 4 inches. You can also try to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before lying down. Your doctor might recommend some medicines to help reduce the acid in your stomach and cut down on acid reflux.
- Allergies – Postnasal drip from allergies can be helped by avoiding things that bother your nose and throat. These could include cleaning supplies, dust, outdoor allergens, pets, smoke, and more. Talk to your doctor about medications that might help also.
- Asthma – If you have been diagnosed with asthma, your doctor can help find a treatment plan that works for you.
- Medicine – If you feel like a medicine you’re taking is causing you to cough, talk to your doctor. Don’t stop taking the medicine until after you talk to your doctor. He or she might be able to find a different medication that is a better fit for you.
- Smoking – You should stop smoking. Your doctor can recommend ways to help yourself quit smoking.
Talk to your doctor for more information about how to treat a chronic cough.
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