A cough is a common reflex action aimed at clearing the throat and airways of mucus, irritants, and infections. However, when a cough becomes persistent, it could signal a more serious underlying health issue. At NewMed Immediate Care in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, we specialize in diagnosing and treating various types of coughs, ensuring comprehensive care and management for our patients.
Understanding Coughs: From Acute to Chronic
Coughs are generally classified into two types: acute and chronic. Acute coughs are the ones that you might experience briefly due to a cold or flu and typically resolve within three weeks. On the other hand, chronic coughs last longer than eight weeks and can be caused by several conditions that require medical attention.
Common Causes of Chronic Cough
Several factors and conditions can contribute to a chronic cough, including:
- Asthma: Often characterized by a dry cough that worsens at night or in response to specific triggers.
- Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis is usually an infection following a cold, leading to temporary coughing. Chronic bronchitis, a form of COPD, involves a long-term cough with mucus.
- Allergies: Triggered by dust, pollen, or pets, which can lead to a postnasal drip and coughing.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, irritating the lining and causing a cough.
- Smoking: A major cause of chronic cough, ‘smoker’s cough’ can persist unless smoking cessation is achieved.
Diagnosing and Treating Cough at NewMed Immediate Care
Identifying the cause of a cough is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment. At NewMed Immediate Care, our approach includes:
- Detailed Medical Evaluation: Understanding your medical history and symptoms to identify potential causes.
- Diagnostic Tests: May include chest X-rays, spirometry, and other tests to examine lung function and identify respiratory conditions.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve:
- Medications: Such as bronchodilators, anti-inflammatory drugs, or antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Including smoking cessation and managing allergies or GERD.
- Home Remedies: Such as increased fluid intake, humidifiers, and saline nasal sprays can help ease symptoms.
Managing Chronic Cough
Beyond treating the immediate symptoms, managing a chronic cough involves addressing the root cause and may require long-term strategies to prevent recurrence. This could involve ongoing medication management, lifestyle changes, and regular follow-ups.
Visit NewMed Immediate Care for Cough Relief in Rolling Meadows
If you are experiencing a persistent or severe cough, do not wait to seek medical attention. Visit NewMed Immediate Care in Rolling Meadows for expert care and support. We are dedicated to providing you with effective treatments and strategies to manage your cough and improve your overall respiratory health.