Managing Chronic Cough In Adults

You have a patient who has been coughing for weeks, maybe even a couple of months. You’ve already ruled out COVID; where do you turn next? Which questions do you ask? Which labs do you order – and why?

Managing Chronic Cough In Adults

This week, let’s talk about chronic cough – what it is, how it differs from acute cough, when to refer the patient, and more:

•  Common causes – things like GERD, asthma, allergies
•  The special history questions to ask and how they will help with your differentials
•  What to watch for in the physical exam
•  Labs and other tests to order
•  Red flags

Coughs are common in primary care, and you will see them frequently. Knowing whether you are seeing a more common presentation or something more unusual will help you to create the best plan to take care of your patients. This confidence ensures your patient is cared for in the most appropriate setting and that referrals happen at the most appropriate time.  

 If you liked this post, also check these out:

• Post Covid Symptoms
• When To Use Antibiotics: Persistent Cough Case Study For Nurse Practitioners
• Should You Use Antibiotics in a COPD Exacerbation? Case Study for Nurse Practitioners  
  

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