Everyone deals with a cough now and then, especially during cold and flu season or when the North Texas pollen counts are high. Usually, these coughs disappear as your body heals. However, when a cough lingers for weeks or months, it is no longer just a minor irritation; it is classified as a chronic cough.
At Medical Associates of North Texas, we want our patients in Fort Worth and Weatherton, TX, to understand that a chronic cough is often a symptom of an underlying issue. Identifying the cause is the first step toward finding relief and protecting your long-term health.
Generally, a cough is considered chronic if it lasts for eight weeks or longer in adults. In children, the timeframe is usually shorter, typically four weeks. If you’ve reached this milestone, your body is signaling that something is irritating your respiratory system consistently.
During an evaluation at our practice, we look for several common culprits. These can include postnasal drip, where mucus trickles down the back of the throat, or asthma, which can sometimes present only as a cough. Other causes include Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), where stomach acid irritates the food pipe, or chronic infections like bronchitis.
While a cough itself is frustrating, certain "red flag" symptoms mean you should book an appointment with our team sooner rather than later:
We take a comprehensive approach to diagnostics. By reviewing your medical history and performing a physical exam, we can determine if you need imaging, lung function tests, or lab work. Once we pinpoint the cause, we work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include medications to reduce inflammation, suppress the cough, or treat an infection.
At Medical Associates of North Texas, we’re committed to helping you find the source of your discomfort. To discuss your symptoms with our team, call the office nearest you or use our online booking tool to request an appointment today.
