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What is Chronic Cough?

Chronic cough is a cough that doesn’t improve over time. This is condition, often a symptom of another condition, affects about 10-20% of the U.S. population each year.

Chronic cough often leads to laryngeal hypersensitivity, which means the larynx (also known as the voice box) is especially sensitive and irritated.

Causes of Chronic Cough

Chronic cough can be connected to a variety of conditions. You’re at a higher risk for developing chronic cough if you smoke or have the following conditions:

Chronic Cough Triggers

  • Strong odors
  • Dust
  • Fumes from chemicals
  • Temperature changes
  • Speaking
  • Eating/drinking
  • Change in position (such as lying down)
  • Allergies

Other Symptoms of Chronic Cough

  • Stuffy nose
  • Heartburn
  • Sore throat
  • Frequent throat clearing
  • Fever
  • Shortness of breath
  • Hoarseness

UR Medicine's Treatments for Chronic Cough

Our Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP) have specialty training and expertise in chronic cough. We will complete a personalized assessment of your coughing, breathing, and voice in order to diagnose you correctly.

Your provider will treat your cough based on the condition it relates to. Treatment may include:

  • Drinking more water than average
  • Surface hydration (steam inhalation, humidification)
  • Avoiding smoking
  • Avoiding alcohol and caffeine
  • Diet adjustments
  • Voice therapy
  • Breathing techniques
  • Medications including antibiotics, decongestants, or steroids

What Sets Us Apart?

At UR Medicine, we utilize a multidisciplinary approach to care for children and adults. We are exposed to more complex cases than most providers in the Rochester metropolitan area and surrounding region, and each of our patients can be assured they are always in the hands of highly skilled experts.

Our speech pathologists are licensed by the New York State Department of Education and hold Certificates of Clinical Competence for the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), in addition to postgraduate training and certifications in several clinical subspecialties.

Providers

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Locations

We serve you in the Rochester metropolitan area and surrounding region.

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2 locations

Ear, Nose, & Throat - Batavia
Part of Strong Memorial Hospital

7995 Call Parkway, Suite 100
Batavia, NY 14020

Ear, Nose, & Throat - Brighton
Part of Strong Memorial Hospital

Clinton Woods
2365 South Clinton Avenue, Suite 200
Rochester, NY 14618

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