Definition:
Persistent cough or also called as chronic cough is not a disease in itself; rather it is a symptom of other
disorders. It is a usual problem and the reason for many doctor visits.
Diagnosis:
The use of a chest radiograph is important for the initial ranking of possible diagnoses and can assist in making
decisions regarding empiric therapies and the need for further testing.
Treatment:
The use of a chest radiograph is important for the initial ranking of possible diagnoses and can assist in making
decisions regarding empiric therapies and the need for further testing. In many cases, a normal chest radiograph
in an immunocompetent patient rules out conditions such as carcinoma, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis or bronchiectasis.
Symptoms and Signs:
Acute cough as one lasting less than three weeks, sub acute as lasting from three to eight weeks 0and persistent
cough as lasting longer than eight weeks. Another possible signs of persistent cough
are: Bronchiogenic carcinoma, carcinomatosis, sarcoidosis, left ventricular failure and aspiration. A
psychogenic or "habit" cough is rare, and can always be diagnosed by exclusion.
Causes:
There are likely to be other possible causes, so ask your doctor about your symptoms.
Whooping cough; Chronic cough; Smoker's cough; Asthma; Chronic bronchitis; Emphysema; COPD; Lung cancer.
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