Highlights & Basics
- Chronic cough that occurs with coexisting upper airway symptoms, including abnormal sensations arising from the throat and a postnasal drip sensation.
- Sensations attributed to nasal disease may actually be manifestations of a sensory neuropathic process and not relate to rate or quantity of nasal discharge.
- Most common cause of chronic cough in adults.
- No pathognomonic findings exist; diagnosis should be determined by considering a combination of criteria, including the history, physical exam, imaging, and, ultimately, the response to therapy.
- Trial of empiric therapy with a first-generation antihistamine plus a decongestant is both diagnostic and therapeutic. Nonpharmacologic therapies also form part of the treatment pathway.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
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Citations
American College of Chest Physicians. Diagnosis and Management of Cough. Chronic upper airway cough syndrome secondary to rhinosinus diseases (previously referred to as postnasal drip syndrome): ACCP evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Jan 2006 [internet publication].[Full Text]
European Respiratory Society. ERS guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic cough in adults and children. 2020 [internet publication]. [Full Text]
American College of Chest Physicians. Treatment of unexplained chronic cough: CHEST guideline and expert panel report. 2016 [internet publication].[Full Text]
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