Treating and Managing Chronic Cough

What to Expect

A diagnosis of chronic cough can be both confirming and frustrating. It is a relief to know there is a name for the symptoms you have experienced for so long. But that doesn't always mean that the cough itself will go away. Your healthcare provider may instead work with you to manage living with chronic cough.

A chronic cough can impact your quality of life and may cause more severe challenges such as vomiting, muscle pain, rib fractures, urinary incontinence, tiredness or fainting. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about managing any symptoms you are experiencing along with your chronic cough. 

Treatment Options

There is no FDA approved medication in the United States to treat chronic cough however clinical trials are happening to find new treatments and therapies. If your cough is identified as being caused by a specific medical condition such as asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, sinus drainage issues, nasal polyps, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) there may be specific treatments prescribed by your healthcare provider that can be helpful in getting rid of the cough or at least making it more manageable.

Certain off label neurological medications may help reduce the cough reflex for people living with a refractory or unexplained chronic cough. If your provider prescribes this type of medication, you will need to work together to find the right dosage and monitor any side effects. Your provider may also recommend working with a speech-language pathologist to learn behavioral cough suppression therapy.

Managing Chronic Cough

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes are not a cure for your chronic cough but may help in managing your cough.

• Avoid irritants. If you are aware of something that triggers your cough, try to decrease your exposure to this irritant. As an example, dust may cause you to cough so it can be helpful to damp dust your home and wear a mask to reduce your exposure.
• Be mindful of outdoor air quality, pollen or molds. Your local news or weather station often tracks the different pollen and molds in the air. You can also check the air quality at airnow.gov.
• Drink lots of fluids. This can help thin mucus and will keep you hydrated.
• Avoid tobacco smoke. Tobacco smoke is a lung irritant and can worsen your cough.  If you currently use tobacco products, learn more about quitting tobacco.
• Soothe your throat. Hard candy, cough drops or honey can help to soothe your throat.   However, do NOT give honey to infants under one as it may contain bacteria that is harmful to them.
• Moisturize the air. Use of a cool-mist humidifier may help decrease your cough.  Be sure to clean the water basin of your humidifier frequently to prevent mold growth.
• Discuss with your healthcare provider any physical and emotional impacts related to your chronic cough or coughing spells.

Managing your Emotional Health

Living with a chronic cough may cause a range of mood changes and emotions such as anger, anxiety, depression, embarrassment, frustration or helplessness. You may also feel self-conscious about your cough, especially in social situations.

While a chronic cough can feel isolating, you are not alone.  You may find comfort and support in reaching out to others experiencing similar challenges. In sharing stories, voicing frustrations and affirming hope, the emotional toll chronic cough has on your life may lessen. 

Check out some of the supportive resources available to you: