Chronic Cough Treatment in
Houston, TX

Chronic cough can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and disruptive, often leaving patients worried about ongoing throat irritation, frequent coughing episodes, and the possibility of a deeper sinus or airway issue. Many people seek treatment when symptoms begin affecting sleep, work, or daily interactions, especially if over-the-counter remedies no longer provide relief.

Our clinic in Houston offers professional evaluation and personalized care for individuals who want practical solutions and long-term improvement so they can breathe, speak, and live more comfortably.

Table of Contents

What Is Chronic Cough?

A cough is considered chronic when it lasts:

Four weeks or longer in children
Eight weeks or longer in adults

Coughing is more than just annoying. It can interrupt your sleep, work, and daytime activities. People with severe cases experience vomiting, lightheadedness, and sometimes even rib fractures and broken blood vessels.

What Causes Chronic Cough?

It’s sometimes hard to determine the exact trigger. Some of the more common causes include, but are not limited to:

Allergies (by far the most common cause)
Chronic Sinusitis
Tobacco Use
Postnasal Drip
Asthma
Acid Reflux
Chronic Bronchitis
Treatment with ACE Inhibitors
Long COVID

When Should I Be Concerned?

An occasional cough is normal. It can help clear irritants or mucus and prevent infections. A cough becomes a problem when it lasts for several weeks without any change. It’s also a problem if it persistently gets worse.

How Do You Diagnose a Chronic Cough?

It is important to rule out the more common causes first.

An allergy test is a good first step.

A sinus CT scan is also crucial to rule out chronic sinusitis.

With these two simple tests, we can diagnose the majority of cases.Also, knowing your medical history is essential for diagnosing a chronic cough. For example, you may not be a smoker, but your partner is. Secondhand smoke could be a contributing factor to your chronic cough.

What Are the Available
Treatments?

Treatments will depend mainly on the cause. For those with seasonal allergies, a combination of simple medications, nasal rinses, and immunotherapy will address the pesky cough. Patients with chronic sinusitis may require other treatments to find relief. Here are the most common treatment options:

Medication management, such as antihistamines, nasal steroids, or reflux therapy
In-office sinus treatments to improve airflow and reduce inflammation
Allergy testing and immunotherapy for chronic allergy-related cough
Treatment for postnasal drip, including nasal saline rinses and targeted therapies
Airway evaluation to identify asthma or reactive airway conditions
Lifestyle and environmental modifications to reduce ongoing triggers

The only way to treat a chronic cough is by trying to identify the root cause. A proper exam can help us determine the cause.

Who Is Most Affected by Chronic Cough?

Chronic cough can affect people of all ages, but certain individuals are more likely to experience persistent cough lasting more than eight weeks. Adults with underlying conditions, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, or acid reflux, may be at higher risk. People taking high blood pressure medications, such as ACE inhibitors, may also develop a persistent cough as a side effect.

Smokers, those exposed to secondhand smoke, and individuals with frequent respiratory infections are also more susceptible. Patients who notice additional symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort should seek medical attention immediately.

Benefits of Chronic Cough Treatment

Relief from persistent coughing, improving comfort during daily activities
Better sleep quality by reducing nighttime coughing episodes
Improved breathing and pulmonary function
Reduced risk of complications, such as rib fractures or throat irritation
Enhanced ability to speak and communicate without interruption
Identification and management of underlying conditions, such as allergies, asthma, or acid reflux
Improved overall quality of life and daily functioning

Cost of Chronic Cough Treatment in Houston, TX

The cost of chronic cough treatment in Houston, TX, typically ranges from $150 to $600, depending on the complexity of the evaluation and the tests required, such as pulmonary function tests, chest X-rays, or computerized tomography (CT) scans. Personalized treatment plans are designed to address the root cause of your persistent cough and provide long-term relief.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Cilento today to get an accurate assessment and start your path to better breathing and comfort.

Treat Chronic Cough at
Texas Sinus & Snoring

At Texas Sinus & Snoring, we provide an individualized treatment plan tailored to each patient, focusing on identifying the underlying cause of a chronic cough. Our clinic offers effective treatments that not only relieve persistent symptoms but also help prevent complications, such as pneumonia. Trust our experienced doctors to guide you toward long-term relief and improved respiratory health. Schedule your appointment today to start breathing easier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can chronic cough be a sign of lung cancer?

While most chronic coughs are caused by allergies, infections, or other common conditions, a persistent cough can occasionally signal something more serious, including lung cancer. Patients may also experience other warning signs, such as chest pain, unexplained weight loss, or coughing up blood. It’s essential to seek medical evaluation promptly if a cough persists for more than eight weeks.

Why does postnasal drip lead to chronic cough?

Post-nasal drip occurs when excess mucus from the sinuses drips down the back of the throat, irritating the airway tissues. This irritation triggers the cough reflex, especially when combined with environmental irritants like dust, smoke, or strong odors. Treating both the post-nasal drip and reducing exposure to irritants can help alleviate chronic coughing.

How to choose the most suitable treatment option for chronic cough?

When considering the best option for chronic cough treatment, Houston patients should work closely with their healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause of their cough. Options may include medications, lifestyle changes, or therapies targeting specific triggers. While cough suppressants can provide temporary relief, addressing the root cause ensures more effective, long-term results.

Chronic Cough Treatment in Houston, TX