Chronic cough, defined as a persistent cough lasting for more than eight weeks, is a common and often debilitating condition that affects millions worldwide. While it may seem innocuous, chronic cough can significantly impair quality of life, disrupt sleep, and lead to social embarrassment. The top three reasons for chronic cough include postnasal drip syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and asthma.
Postnasal drip syndrome, characterized by excessive mucus production in the nasal passages that drips down the back of the throat, accounts for approximately 30% of chronic cough cases. GERD, wherein stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and cough reflex, contributes to around 20-30% of cases. Asthma, a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways, is responsible for roughly 20% of chronic cough diagnoses. On average, it takes several months to a year for individuals with chronic cough to receive a proper diagnosis due to its diverse underlying causes and overlapping symptoms.
