ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled
| Filter | Status | Condition | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| HTTP status | PASS | download_http_code = 200 | HTTP 200 |
| Age cutoff | PASS | download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH | 0.1 months ago |
| History drop | PASS | isNull(history_drop_reason) | No drop reason |
| Spam/ban | PASS | fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0 | ml_spam_score=0 |
| Canonical | PASS | meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed | Not set |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| URL | https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview |
| Last Crawled | 2026-04-13 16:14:21 (1 day ago) |
| First Indexed | 2023-09-22 11:40:00 (2 years ago) |
| HTTP Status Code | 200 |
| Meta Title | Chronic Cough: Causes & Treatment |
| Meta Description | A chronic cough (a cough that doesn’t go away) could mean an underlying health condition like asthma, postnasal drip or GERD. Medications can help manage it. |
| Meta Canonical | null |
| Boilerpipe Text | How is chronic cough treated?
Treatment depends on the condition causing your cough. Usually, it involves a mix of medications and lifestyle changes to either
cure
or manage the condition causing issues. Your healthcare provider will recommend a customized treatment plan based on your needs.
Medicines
Lots of medications treat chronic cough. Your healthcare provider may prescribe or suggest:
Antacids
,
H2 blockers
or
PPIs
to manage GERD symptoms
Antibiotics
for bacterial infections
Antihistamines
and
nasal sprays
to relieve allergy symptoms
Decongestants
to relieve postnasal drip
Expectorants
that thin mucus so it’s easier to cough out (well-known ones include Mucinex
®
and Robitussin
®
)
Mucolytics
to break up mucus
Steroids
or inhaled
bronchodilators
to reduce swelling or inflammation in your airway from asthma or other lung conditions
Sometimes, the remedy is to stop taking medicines, like ACE inhibitors. But only do this if your healthcare provider says so. And never give over-the-counter medicines to children under 6 years old unless their
pediatrician
tells you it’s safe.
Lifestyle changes
To relieve symptoms of chronic cough, try soothing
home remedies
. Get enough
sleep
, eat
balanced meals
and make sure you’re
drinking enough water
. If you think reflux is part of your cough, you can raise the head of your bed. Work with your provider to identify food or substances that can trigger the cough. Then, make a plan to avoid them.
This advice may sound obvious. But it’s easy to let these kinds of things slide when you’re distracted by something annoying like a persistent cough. Tending to the basics can make a big difference when it comes to feeling better.
What happens if chronic cough goes untreated?
Chronic coughing can keep you up at night and rob you of precious sleep (
insomnia
). The effects can snowball into
fatigue
and
stress
that impact every part of your life. The frequent coughing can make you self-conscious — so much so that you avoid being around others.
In severe cases of chronic cough, you may have related medical issues like:
Can chronic cough be prevented?
You can’t always prevent chronic cough. But you can do things to reduce your risk. You can:
Quit smoking
. If you don’t smoke, don’t start.
Protect yourself from
germs
that can make you sick
. This may mean staying up-to-date on
flu shots
, masking or
washing your hands
often. There are lots of ways to protect yourself.
See your
primary care provider
and discuss the issue with them
. They’ll help you decide if you need testing or treatment based on your symptoms. |
| Markdown | 
Locations:
[Abu Dhabi](https://www.clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae/en)\|[Canada](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/canada)\|[Florida](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/florida)\|[London](https://clevelandcliniclondon.uk/)\|[Nevada](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/locations/nevada)\|[Ohio](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)\|

[855\.733.3712](tel:8557333712)\|[MyChart](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/online-services/mychart)\|[Need Help?](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/help)\|[Careers](https://jobs.clevelandclinic.org/)\|[Donate Now](https://give.ccf.org/give/187824#!/donation/checkout)\|

[](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)
[Find a Provider](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/providers)[Locations and Directions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/locations)[Services](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services)[Patients and Visitors](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients)[Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health)
- [Find a Provider](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/providers)
- [Locations and Directions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/locations)
- [Services](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services)
- [Patients and Visitors](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients)
- [Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health)
[](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/search)
Menu
[](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/search)[Appointments](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients/information/access)
[Home](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)/
[Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health)/
[Symptoms](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms)/
Chronic Cough
Advertisement
Advertisement
# Chronic Cough
Medically Reviewed.
Last updated on 04/26/2024.
A chronic cough is a cough that doesn’t go away. Common causes of chronic cough include asthma, postnasal drip and acid reflux (GERD). Treatments depend on the underlying cause. But they usually involve taking medicines and making changes to your routine. If you or your child has a long-lasting cough, see a healthcare provider.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. [Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising)
Care at Cleveland Clinic
[Chronic Cough Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/chronic-cough-treatment)
[Find a Doctor and Specialists](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/chronic-cough-treatment#featured-provider-panel)
[Make an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webappointment)
Contents
[Overview](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview#overview)[Possible Causes](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview#possible-causes)[Care and Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview#care-and-treatment)[When To Call the Doctor](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview#when-to-call-the-doctor)
Contents
[Overview](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview#overview)[Possible Causes](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview#possible-causes)[Care and Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview#care-and-treatment)[When To Call the Doctor](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview#when-to-call-the-doctor)
## Overview
### What is chronic cough?
Chronic cough is a [cough](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough) that lasts longer than eight weeks in adults and four weeks in children. It’s one of the most common reasons people visit their healthcare providers.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. [Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising)
Coughing is usually a good thing. It helps you get rid of substances that can irritate your airway. Everyone coughs sometimes. But chronic cough is often a symptom of a health condition. Depending on what’s causing it, you may also have symptoms like:
- [Fever](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever)
- [Heartburn](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9617-heartburn-overview)
- Chest Pain
- Hoarseness
- [Shortness of breath](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/16942-shortness-of-breath-dyspnea)
- [Runny](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17660-runny-nose) or [stuffy nose](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17980-nasal-congestion)
- [Sore throat](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/8274-sore-throat-pharyngitis) or frequent throat clearing
- Tickle in the back of your throat
No matter the cause, frequent coughing can leave you exhausted and self-conscious about when the next coughing fit will happen. This is why it’s important to see a healthcare provider to find ways to manage it.
## Possible Causes
### What causes chronic cough?
The most common chronic cough causes include:
- [**Asthma**](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6424-asthma). Asthma is the most common cause of chronic cough. Coughing may worsen in certain seasons or in response to dry or cold air. It may get worse when you’re around mold, pollen or [smoke](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10644-secondhand-smoke-dangers).
- [**Postnasal drip**](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23082-postnasal-drip). Another name for this condition is upper airway cough syndrome (UACS). Allergies and nasal disease can cause your nose to make too much [mucus](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/mucus). It can drip down your throat and irritate your windpipe and lungs, making you cough.
- [**GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)**](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17019-acid-reflux-gerd). With GERD, stomach acid backflows into your food pipe ([esophagus](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21728-esophagus)). It can irritate the tissue lining and make you cough.
- **Other lung disease**. [Bronchitis](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3993-bronchitis), [COPD](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8709-chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd), [pleural effusions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17373-pleural-effusion), [pneumonia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4471-pneumonia), [pulmonary fibrosis](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10959-pulmonary-fibrosis) and lung masses can also cause chronic cough.
Advertisement
Other reasons for chronic cough include:
- [ACE inhibitors](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21934-ace-inhibitors) (a drug class of blood pressure medicine)
- [Allergies](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8610-allergies)
- [Heart failure](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17069-heart-failure-understanding-heart-failure)
- [Smoking](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17488-smoking)
- [Upper respiratory infections](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4022-upper-respiratory-infection) (like [whooping cough](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15661-whooping-cough-pertussis))
When providers can’t find the cause, chronic cough becomes a condition instead of a symptom. In this case, they call it “chronic refractory cough.” In children, providers sometimes call this condition “habitual cough.”
## Care and Treatment
### How is chronic cough treated?
Treatment depends on the condition causing your cough. Usually, it involves a mix of medications and lifestyle changes to either [cure](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24434-cure) or manage the condition causing issues. Your healthcare provider will recommend a customized treatment plan based on your needs.
#### Medicines
Lots of medications treat chronic cough. Your healthcare provider may prescribe or suggest:
- [Antacids](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/23076-antacid), [H2 blockers](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/h2-blockers) or [PPIs](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/proton-pump-inhibitors) to manage GERD symptoms
- [Antibiotics](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/16386-antibiotics) for bacterial infections
- [Antihistamines](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/antihistamines) and [nasal sprays](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/nasal-spray-for-allergies) to relieve allergy symptoms
- [Decongestants](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/24923-nasal-decongestant) to relieve postnasal drip
- [Expectorants](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/22078-expectorant) that thin mucus so it’s easier to cough out (well-known ones include Mucinex® and Robitussin®)
- [Mucolytics](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24905-mucolytic) to break up mucus
- [Steroids](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/4812-corticosteroids) or inhaled [bronchodilators](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17575-bronchodilator) to reduce swelling or inflammation in your airway from asthma or other lung conditions
Sometimes, the remedy is to stop taking medicines, like ACE inhibitors. But only do this if your healthcare provider says so. And never give over-the-counter medicines to children under 6 years old unless their [pediatrician](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/21716-what-is-a-pediatrician) tells you it’s safe.
#### Lifestyle changes
To relieve symptoms of chronic cough, try soothing [home remedies](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-stop-coughing). Get enough [sleep](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/12148-sleep-basics), eat [balanced meals](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/balanced-diet) and make sure you’re [drinking enough water](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-much-water-do-you-need-daily). If you think reflux is part of your cough, you can raise the head of your bed. Work with your provider to identify food or substances that can trigger the cough. Then, make a plan to avoid them.
This advice may sound obvious. But it’s easy to let these kinds of things slide when you’re distracted by something annoying like a persistent cough. Tending to the basics can make a big difference when it comes to feeling better.
#### What happens if chronic cough goes untreated?
Chronic coughing can keep you up at night and rob you of precious sleep ([insomnia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12119-insomnia)). The effects can snowball into [fatigue](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21206-fatigue) and [stress](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11874-stress) that impact every part of your life. The frequent coughing can make you self-conscious — so much so that you avoid being around others.
In severe cases of chronic cough, you may have related medical issues like:
- [Bleeding in your eye](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17713-subconjunctival-hemorrhage)
- [Broken ribs](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17434-rib-fracture-broken-rib)
- [Dizziness](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/6422-dizziness)
- [Headaches](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9639-headaches)
- [Hernia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15757-hernia)
- [Loss of bladder control](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17596-urinary-incontinence)
- [Muscle pain](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/myalgia-muscle-pain) in your coughing muscles
Advertisement
### Can chronic cough be prevented?
You can’t always prevent chronic cough. But you can do things to reduce your risk. You can:
- [**Quit smoking**](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/quitting-smoking/). If you don’t smoke, don’t start.
- **Protect yourself from [germs](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24495-germs) that can make you sick**. This may mean staying up-to-date on [flu shots](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24135-vaccines), masking or [washing your hands](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17474-hand-washing) often. There are lots of ways to protect yourself.
- **See your [primary care provider](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23467-primary-care-physician) and discuss the issue with them**. They’ll help you decide if you need testing or treatment based on your symptoms.
Care at Cleveland Clinic
[Chronic Cough Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/chronic-cough-treatment)
[Find a Doctor and Specialists](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/chronic-cough-treatment#featured-provider-panel)
[Make an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webappointment)
## When To Call the Doctor
### When should chronic cough be treated by a doctor or healthcare provider?
If your cough lasts 10 days or more, and you don’t know why, it’s time to see your provider. If you have more serious symptoms, let your provider know right away or seek urgent medical care. Reasons to seek urgent medical care include:
- [Coughing up blood](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17696-coughing-up-blood)
- Drenching [night sweats](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/16562-night-sweats)
- [Hoarseness](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17105-hoarseness) that doesn’t go away
- [Shortness of breath](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/16942-dyspnea)
- [Trouble swallowing](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21195-dysphagia-difficulty-swallowing)
- [Unexplained weight loss](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/unexplained-weight-loss)
- [Wheezing](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15203-wheezing)
### A note from Cleveland Clinic
Chronic cough can make you anxious when you’re around others and things get quiet. As you feel the urge to cough coming on, it may seem as if all eyes are on you. But you don’t have to just accept the discomfort. There are treatments that can help. Most causes of chronic cough are conditions that you can manage with medicine. There are changes you can make to your routine that can help, too. Getting diagnosed is the first step to managing the condition and the cough.
Advertisement
[](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)[](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)
[](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/)

## Better health starts here
Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more.
[Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026)[Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up)
[Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up)[Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026)
### Experts You Can Trust
Medically Reviewed.
Last updated on 04/26/2024.
Learn more about the [Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/about) and our [editorial process](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/editorial-policy).
### References
Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards.
#### View Sources
### Experts You Can Trust
Medically Reviewed.
Last updated on 04/26/2024.
### References
Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards.
- Alhajjaj MS, Sankari A, Bajaj P. Chronic Cough *(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430791/)*. In: *StatPearls* \[Internet\]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan. Accessed 5/19/2025.
- Canadian Lung Association. Chronic Cough *(https://www.lung.ca/lung-health/lung-disease/chronic-cough)*. Accessed 5/19/2025.
- Manlove E. Cough. In: Kellerman RD, Heidelbaugh JL and Lee EM, eds. *Conn’s Current Therapy.* Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025. 7-9.
- Wu J, Ma Y, Chen Y. GERD-related chronic cough: Possible mechanism, diagnosis and treatment *(https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9630749/)*. *Front Physiol*. 2022 Oct;13:1005404. Accessed 5/19/2025.
### Care at Cleveland Clinic
Tired of constantly coughing? You don’t have to live with a chronic cough. Cleveland Clinic is here to help you get relief.

[Chronic Cough Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/chronic-cough-treatment)
[Find a Doctor and Specialists](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/chronic-cough-treatment#featured-provider-panel)
[Make an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webappointment)
Advertisement
Advertisement
Ad
Appointments [216\.444.8500](tel:2164448500)
[Appointments & Locations](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/departments/head-neck/appointments-locations)
[Request an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webappointment/what-to-expect)
[Find a ProviderNeed a primary care doctor or a specialist? Our Find a Provider tool makes it easy to search Cleveland Clinic’s trusted network.](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/providers)
[LocationsFind any of our 300+ locations.](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/locations)
[AppointmentsGet the in-person or virtual care you need.](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients/information/access)
### Subscribe to Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials
[Sign Up Today](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-newsletter?utm_medium=email&utm_source=jotform&utm_campaign=he&utm_content=signuppage)
### Actions
[Appointments & Access](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients/information/access)[Accepted Insurance](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients/accepted-insurance)[Events Calendar](https://events.clevelandclinic.org/)[Financial Assistance](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients/billing-finance/financial-assistance)[Give to Cleveland Clinic](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/giving)[Pay Your Bill Online](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients/billing-finance/payment-options)[Price Transparency](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients/billing-finance/comprehensive-hospital-charges)[Refer a Patient](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/professionals/referring)[Phone Directory](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/contact/phone-directory)[Virtual Second Opinions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/online-services/virtual-second-opinions)[Virtual Visits](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/online-services/virtual-visits)
### About Cleveland Clinic
[100 Years of Cleveland Clinic](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/history)[About Us](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about)[Locations](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/locations)[Quality & Patient Safety](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/departments/patient-experience/depts/quality-patient-safety)[Patient Experience](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/departments/patient-experience/depts/office-patient-experience)[Research & Innovations](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/research)[Community Commitment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/community)[Careers](https://jobs.clevelandclinic.org/)[For Employees](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/for-employees)[Resources for Medical Professionals](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/professionals)
### Subscribe to Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials
[Sign Up Today](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-newsletter?utm_medium=email&utm_source=jotform&utm_campaign=he&utm_content=signuppage)
Follow Cleveland Clinic
[](https://www.facebook.com/ClevelandClinic)
[](https://twitter.com/clevelandclinic)
[](https://www.youtube.com/user/clevelandclinic)
[](https://www.instagram.com/clevelandclinic/)
[](https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleveland-clinic)
Blog, News & Apps
[Consult QD](https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/)
[Health Essentials](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/)
[Newsroom](https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/)
[MyClevelandClinic](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/mobile-apps/myclevelandclinic)
[MyChart](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/online-services/mychart)
Site Information & Policies
[Send Us Feedback](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webcontact/webmail)
[About this Website](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website)
[Advertising Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising)
[Social Media Policy](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/social-media)
[Copyright, Reprint & Licensing](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/reprints-licensing)
[Website Terms of Use](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/terms-of-use)
[Privacy Policy](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/privacy-security)
[Notice of Privacy Practices](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/privacy-practices)
[Non-Discrimination and Availability](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/non-discrimination-notice)
[Call: 800\.223.2273](tel:8002232273) \| 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 \| © 2026 Cleveland Clinic. All Rights Reserved. |
| Readable Markdown | ### How is chronic cough treated?
Treatment depends on the condition causing your cough. Usually, it involves a mix of medications and lifestyle changes to either [cure](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24434-cure) or manage the condition causing issues. Your healthcare provider will recommend a customized treatment plan based on your needs.
#### Medicines
Lots of medications treat chronic cough. Your healthcare provider may prescribe or suggest:
- [Antacids](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/23076-antacid), [H2 blockers](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/h2-blockers) or [PPIs](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/proton-pump-inhibitors) to manage GERD symptoms
- [Antibiotics](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/16386-antibiotics) for bacterial infections
- [Antihistamines](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/antihistamines) and [nasal sprays](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/nasal-spray-for-allergies) to relieve allergy symptoms
- [Decongestants](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/24923-nasal-decongestant) to relieve postnasal drip
- [Expectorants](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/22078-expectorant) that thin mucus so it’s easier to cough out (well-known ones include Mucinex® and Robitussin®)
- [Mucolytics](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24905-mucolytic) to break up mucus
- [Steroids](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/4812-corticosteroids) or inhaled [bronchodilators](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17575-bronchodilator) to reduce swelling or inflammation in your airway from asthma or other lung conditions
Sometimes, the remedy is to stop taking medicines, like ACE inhibitors. But only do this if your healthcare provider says so. And never give over-the-counter medicines to children under 6 years old unless their [pediatrician](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/21716-what-is-a-pediatrician) tells you it’s safe.
#### Lifestyle changes
To relieve symptoms of chronic cough, try soothing [home remedies](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-stop-coughing). Get enough [sleep](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/12148-sleep-basics), eat [balanced meals](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/balanced-diet) and make sure you’re [drinking enough water](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-much-water-do-you-need-daily). If you think reflux is part of your cough, you can raise the head of your bed. Work with your provider to identify food or substances that can trigger the cough. Then, make a plan to avoid them.
This advice may sound obvious. But it’s easy to let these kinds of things slide when you’re distracted by something annoying like a persistent cough. Tending to the basics can make a big difference when it comes to feeling better.
#### What happens if chronic cough goes untreated?
Chronic coughing can keep you up at night and rob you of precious sleep ([insomnia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12119-insomnia)). The effects can snowball into [fatigue](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21206-fatigue) and [stress](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11874-stress) that impact every part of your life. The frequent coughing can make you self-conscious — so much so that you avoid being around others.
In severe cases of chronic cough, you may have related medical issues like:
### Can chronic cough be prevented?
You can’t always prevent chronic cough. But you can do things to reduce your risk. You can:
- [**Quit smoking**](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/quitting-smoking/). If you don’t smoke, don’t start.
- **Protect yourself from [germs](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24495-germs) that can make you sick**. This may mean staying up-to-date on [flu shots](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24135-vaccines), masking or [washing your hands](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17474-hand-washing) often. There are lots of ways to protect yourself.
- **See your [primary care provider](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23467-primary-care-physician) and discuss the issue with them**. They’ll help you decide if you need testing or treatment based on your symptoms. |
| Shard | 143 (laksa) |
| Root Hash | 9889140825964526943 |
| Unparsed URL | org,clevelandclinic!my,/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview s443 |