Chronic Persistent Cough
Educational content • Medi Info HubUpdated: 10/19/2026
Overview
A cough that persists for 8 weeks or longer in adults (4 weeks in children). A defensive reflex triggered by irritation of cough receptors in the larynx, tracheobronchial tree, and pharynx.
Possible Causes
- Upper Airway Cough Syndrome (Post-Nasal Drip)
- Asthma (including Cough-Variant Asthma)
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Chronic Bronchitis / COPD
- ACE-Inhibitor induced cough
- Bronchiectasis or underlying pulmonary tuberculosis
When to Seek Care
Seek prompt medical assessment if your cough produces blood, produces foul-smelling sputum, causes sleep disruption, or is accompanied by night sweats and fever.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.