Chronic cough is defined as a persistent cough that lasts eight weeks or more and is present most days. Chronic cough is the most common symptom in outpatient medical practice.
Coughing is a mechanism of the human body with two functions:
- mobilize secretions within our respiratory system.
- expel harmful substances, having a protective function.
Chronic cough is a persistent cough that lasts eight weeks or more and is present most days. It is quite common, affecting between 3.3 and 12% of the population (i.e. its prevalence varies).
There are two factors that are closely linked to the appearance of chronic cough:
- Tobacco, or to a lesser extent exposure to second-hand smoke.
- Environmental pollution.
While it is true that coughing may appear as a symptom of many respiratory diseases, chronic cough is not always linked to another pathology and often does not respond to treatment.
Typical cough can be:
- Acute, if it lasts less than 4 weeks, as occurs in colds.
- Subacute, if its duration is between 4 and 8 weeks, but without exceeding this time.
- Chronic, when it lasts longer than 8 weeks.
- Refractory, if it has not been controlled after multiple tests and specific treatments.
Chronic cough is still largely unknown, despite the fact that it has a major impact on quality of life, as it causes lack of sleep, muscle fatigue, mental fatigue, and affects the development of social relationships.
The impact of cough on health-related quality of life is a parameter that can be measured objectively. There are different tests, but the most widely used so far is the Leicester Cough Questionnaire.
Why is it important to take this test?
Often, different situations that have become chronic may not be clearly identified. It is important to measure the impact of cough on quality of life in order to be able to act and improve health care.
If your cough lasts longer than 8 weeks, take the test on our project website “Managing Cough” or contact our coaches to solve your doubts.
Last updated on 29 June, 2020
