CHRONIC COUGH: CAUSES AND MANAGEMENT IN FAMILY AND COMMUNITY MEDICINE

Abstract

This narrative literature review gathered articles from major databases aiming to describe the causes and management of chronic cough in the context of family and community medicine. Chronic cough, persistent for more than eight weeks, is a common complaint in family medicine. Its causes include postnasal drip, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic bronchitis, and use of medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). The diagnostic approach involves a detailed clinical history, physical examination, and complementary investigations such as chest radiography, pulmonary function tests, and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Management depends on the underlying cause. For postnasal drip, antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids are used. Asthma is treated with bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids. In GERD, lifestyle changes and the use of proton pump inhibitors are recommended. Chronic bronchitis requires smoking cessation and bronchodilator therapy. ACE inhibitor-induced cough can be resolved by changing the medication. A multidisciplinary approach, involving specialists as needed, is essential, as is patient education and psychological support. Effective management of chronic cough significantly improves patients' quality of life.