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What Causes Persistent Irritation In Throat And Cough?

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Posted on Tue, 14 Jun 2016
Question: I keep getting an irritation in my throat that makes me cough. It comes on suddenly about 2 - 3 times a day. I take a cough drop and after a while it goes away. This has been happening for 6 weeks.
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
post nasal drip causes irritation of the throat lining

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

It is possible that it may be related to post nasal drip.

This would cause irritation at the back of the throat and it is the most common cause of persistent/chronic coughing (cough lasting more than a few weeks).Treatment would consist of the use of an antihistamine decongestant combination.
This is over the counter medication eg benadryl d, allegra d, zyrtec d, claritine d

If this is not helpful on its own, you may need a nasal spray such as flonase, rhinocort, nasonex, nasocort etc- These may require a prescription

Other causes of chronic cough include asthma, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux).

If you have a history of reflux (GERD), then this is likely contributing as well and a change in diet along with reflux medication, would be needed.

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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What Causes Persistent Irritation In Throat And Cough?

Brief Answer: post nasal drip causes irritation of the throat lining Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic It is possible that it may be related to post nasal drip. This would cause irritation at the back of the throat and it is the most common cause of persistent/chronic coughing (cough lasting more than a few weeks).Treatment would consist of the use of an antihistamine decongestant combination. This is over the counter medication eg benadryl d, allegra d, zyrtec d, claritine d If this is not helpful on its own, you may need a nasal spray such as flonase, rhinocort, nasonex, nasocort etc- These may require a prescription Other causes of chronic cough include asthma, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux). If you have a history of reflux (GERD), then this is likely contributing as well and a change in diet along with reflux medication, would be needed. I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions