A paroxysmal cough is a severe episode of coughing that usually accompanies serious conditions. There are various causes for this type of cough. It can be alarming so it is necessary to find a proper treatment. Here is a list of causes for this type of cough and the best way to end it.
Causes Of Paroxysmal Coughs
- Allergies: Allergies are quite common and will vary from person to person. Most often things like pollen pet dander or cigarette smoke can cause irritation of the throat and results in a coughing attack. When allergies are the reason for a coughing spell a person may see improvement in air conditioning.
- Asthma: Asthma is a condition that affects the airways of the lungs. They often swell or become inflamed. This often results in coughing fits.
- Bronchiectasis: This condition is a chronic form of pulmonary disease. The flow of air is obstructed which makes breathing more difficult. Chronic coughing is a result.
- Reflux: When a person suffers from a gastroesophageal condition stomach acid moves backwards into the esophagus. A person feels heartburn and begins to cough on a regular basis.
- Pertussis: Pertussis is commonly known as whooping cough. As the name implies it causes an infected person to experience a thick cough that makes a whooping sound. The condition begins as a common cold and gradually becomes worse as the cough takes hold.
- Cancer: When a person has a persistent cough it does not automatically mean that cancer is the problem. However if the cough is accompanied by blood it may be wise to consult a doctor.
- Smoking: Obviously smoking is a bad habit that affects health in a negative way. Smoking causes the lungs and throat to become irritated and cause a cough.
- Post Nasal Drip: This problem occurs as secretions in the nose flow back into the throat which irritates the area and causes a chronic cough. It can occur because of a cold or on its own.
- Tuberculosis: TB is a serious bacterial infection that often strikes the lungs. When it attacks the lungs tissue is damaged and a cough occurs.
Treatments For Chronic coughing Attacks
- Allergies: Antihistamines are often the most effective treatment for a cough caused by allergies.
- Asthma: The standard treatment for asthma and its resulting cough is an inhaled steroid medication. Inflammation in the air passages becomes lower and coughing subsides.
- Reflux: To stop the cough that occurs with reflux it is wise to avoid foods that are high in fat content. It is also wise to limit citrus juices wine soda chocolate and alcohol. It is best to eat the last meal of the day at least three hours before going to bed. If a person is overweight it will help to drop some pounds. There are also medications that lower acid production in the stomach as well.
- Pertussis: The best way to prevent Pertussis is to get vaccinated against the disease. If it is contracted an antibiotic may be prescribed to kill the bacteria that causes it. Using a vaporizer will loosen mucus and soothe airways. In the end the cough should become less bothersome.
- Post Nasal drip: Using an over the counter antihistamine or decongestant will often lessen the severity of a persistent cough.
Coughing is a common symptom of various conditions. It is not always serious and may subside with time. If it becomes a problem and is accompanied by other serious symptoms it may be necessary to visit the doctor. A paroxysmal cough can be annoying but when treated correctly it will be lessened or eventually stop altogether.