What Is Chronic Cough?

If you have a cough that has lasted for over three weeks, it could be chronic. A health condition that is chronic means that it lasts for quite some time.

Ask yourself:

  • Am I coughing up thick green or yellow phlegm?
  • Am I wheezing or whistling when I breathe in?

Answering yes to either of those questions could mean that you need to see your doctor right away.

What Causes Chronic Cough?

A virus is the main cause of chronic cough, in most cases. Smoking can also contribute to a cough that won’t go away. It’s important to stop smoking as soon as possible.

Postnasal drip related to allergies can trigger a cough. Postnasal drip means that mucus will run down the throat from the back of the nose.