A cough that lasts more than eight weeks isn’t normal. Learn what may be causing your chronic cough and how treatment can help.
Published July 12, 2026
Contributed by: Andrew Bowen, MD / Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose, Throat)
Get to the Bottom of Your Chronic Cough
Coughing is common when you have a cold, the flu or allergies. Most coughs go away within a few weeks.
But what if your cough doesn’t go away? A chronic cough is a cough that lasts eight weeks or longer in adults.
“Coughing can affect your health and your daily life,” says Andrew Bowen, MD, a voice, swallowing and airway specialist at MetroHealth. “Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many people feel uncomfortable coughing in public. There’s no need to suffer, though. We can work with patients to find the cause and treat it.”
What Causes a Chronic Cough
Chronic coughing often starts in adults between ages 40 and 60. It also happens more often in women than men. There are many possible causes, which is why it’s important to see a specialist if your cough won’t go away. Common causes include:
Acid Reflux (GERD)
Acid reflux happens when stomach acid moves up into the throat. This can irritate the throat and cause frequent coughing or throat clearing.
Treatment may include medication and healthy lifestyle changes.
Asthma
Some people have a type of asthma that causes coughing, even if they do not wheeze.
Your provider may refer you to a lung specialist for testing. Asthma-related coughs are often treated with inhalers and other medications.
Airway Inflammation
Sometimes swelling and irritation in the airways can cause a chronic cough.
This can happen when certain white blood cells build up in the lungs. The symptoms are like asthma and may include a cough that won’t go away. A lung specialist may order tests to find the cause and recommend treatment.
Allergies or Sinus Problems
Mucus that drains down the back of the throat can trigger coughing, especially when lying down.
An ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist or allergist can help determine if allergies or sinus problems are causing your symptoms.
Smoking
Smoking can irritate the airways and lead to a chronic cough.
If you smoke and have a cough that does not go away, your provider may order tests to rule out serious conditions, including lung cancer.
Medications
Some medicines can cause coughing as a side effect.
For example, certain blood pressure medications, including lisinopril, may cause a cough. If your cough starts after beginning a new medication, talk to your provider.
How is Chronic Cough Treated?
Treatment depends on what’s causing the cough.
Your MetroHealth care team may recommend:
- Medicines
- Speech-language therapy to help control coughing
- Procedures that help reduce the urge to cough
Many people feel much better once the cause of their cough is found and treated.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Talk to your primary care provider if:
- Your cough lasts more than eight weeks
- Your cough keeps you awake at night
- Your cough affects work, school or daily activities
- You smoke and develop a long-lasting cough
- Your symptoms are getting worse instead of better
A chronic cough can often be treated, but finding the cause is the first step.
Why Choose MetroHealth?
MetroHealth Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists work closely with primary care providers, lung specialists and other experts to find the cause of your cough and create a treatment plan that fits your needs.
Most chronic coughs can be treated. Getting the right care can help you feel better and get back to your normal activities.
Do You have a Chronic Cough?
If you have a chronic cough, make an appointment with your primary care provider. If needed, your provider can refer you to a MetroHealth specialist. Call 216-MY-METRO (216-696-3876) to schedule an appointment.
Your Questions Answered
Q. When is a cough considered chronic?
A. A cough is considered chronic when it lasts eight weeks or longer in adults.
Q. Can acid reflux cause a chronic cough?
A. Yes. Acid reflux can irritate the throat and cause frequent coughing or throat clearing.
Q. Should I worry about a cough that won’t go away?
A. A cough that lasts more than eight weeks should be checked by a healthcare provider. While many causes are treatable, it’s important to rule out more serious health problems.
Q. Can a chronic cough be treated?
A. Yes. Treatment depends on the cause. Many people see major improvement once the underlying problem is identified and treated.
