Chronic Cough: Common Condition or Serious Symptom?

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Tuesday, October 05, 2010

GoLocalProv Lifestyle Editor Andrea E. McHugh

It’s the time of year when colds and coughs are prevalent, but for many, a lingering case of the latter might be a symptom of something more significant. Occasional coughing or coughing as a result of a temporary, passing infection is common, but once it lingers, seeing a physician is recommended. “Two weeks,” suggested Dr. Christoph Sahar, family medicine specialist at Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island in Pawtucket, is the maximum time a cough sufferer should endure before seeing a physician. “A cough can be as significant of a sign of a problem,” he warned.

Panic vs. Precaution

A recent article in Harvard Men’s Health Watch said that for most men, chronic coughing raises the specter of cancer, but it may be a common side effect of smoking or other afflictions as well. “Recurrent cough can also be a dangerous sign for something as serious as pulmonary embolism,” said Dr. Sahar. But, he is quick to point out, coughing may be a sign of a variety of managable conditions, including but not limited to chronic bronchitis, asthma, acid reflux, allergies, or a side affect of medication. “And any cough that causes you to spit up blood or become light headed,” he said, should be addressed immediately.
 

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