What are the risk factors for chronic cough?

A cough may persist when the throat or airways remain irritated after an infection, or when mucus drains from the nose into the throat. [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/) can cause this post-nasal drainage. [Asthma](/conditions/asthma/) may cause cough with wheeze or chest tightness, while [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/) can irritate the throat even without obvious heartburn. Smoking and workplace exposure to dust, fumes or chemicals can sustain inflammation. A persistent cough has several possible causes and is not proof of one particular condition.

Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke, and use suitable protection around dust, vapours or chemicals at work. Drink fluids, consider whether cold air or fragrances trigger coughing, and manage nasal allergy symptoms with professional guidance. Note when the cough occurs, whether it follows meals or lying down, and whether phlegm, wheeze, fever or breathlessness is present. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without advice; a clinician can check whether it may contribute and decide whether examination or testing is needed.

Arrange medical assessment for a cough that persists, keeps disturbing sleep, or comes with recurrent chest infections, unexplained weight loss, fever or breathlessness. Seek urgent help for coughing blood, severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, chest pain, confusion, or sudden deterioration. A cough can be serious even when it is not painful. More information is available on [Chronic Cough](/conditions/chronic-cough/).

Could reflux, nasal allergy or asthma explain my cough? Could any medicine or workplace exposure be contributing? What changes should prompt urgent care? Would I benefit from breathing tests or a chest examination?