Advertisement
Advertisement
The way to treat a persistent cough is to treat the underlying cause.

Ask the Doctors

How can I stop a persistent cough so I can get some sleep?

A: The way to treat a persistent cough is to treat the underlying cause. It would be prudent to get one's lungs X-rayed, especially in this region where the prevalence of tuberculosis is high. Cigarette smoke is a common cause of irritation to the airways and, if at all possible, one should try to avoid the noxious and carcinogenic substances contained within. In those with a normal chest X-ray, common causes of chronic cough are asthma, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and postnasal drip due to rhinitis.
 

Dr Lee Yeow Hian is a consultant respiratory physician and intensivist with Lee Respiratory and Sleep Clinic at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre

Post