How Is Chronic Cough Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a chronic cough begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Healthcare providers will inquire about the duration of the cough, associated symptoms, and any known pre-existing health conditions. They may ask about exposure to allergens, smoking habits, and whether the cough worsens during the day or at night. A chest X-ray is typically performed to exclude pneumonia or other lung diseases, and spirometry tests to assess lung function and check for asthma.
Further diagnostic tests might include a CT scan of the sinuses to rule out sinusitis or other nasal blockages that could contribute to postnasal drip, one of the common causes of chronic cough. For symptoms suggesting GERD, an upper endoscopy or a pH monitoring test may be conducted to look for signs of acid reflux. Allergen testing can be helpful if an allergic cause is suspected. These diagnostics help pinpoint the specific factors contributing to the cough, leading to a targeted treatment approach.
