When a Cough Isn’t “Just a Cough”: Signs You Should See a Pulmonologist 

Everyone coughs. It’s not something that you likely even think about, unless it accompanies a sore throat or respiratory infection. 

However, since October is Healthy Lung Month, it’s time to be aware of how coughing relates to the 22,000 times we breathe every day. At Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine Group, LLC in Monroe, New Jersey, we’d like to raise your awareness of when a cough isn’t just a cough. 

Coughs are generally a problem only when they accompany other illnesses and symptoms, so today’s blog can help you recognize when it’s time to visit a pulmonologist.

Questions to ask

When assessing a cough, whether your own or your child’s, there are some questions to ask as you observe symptoms. These include: 

• Does the cough accompany illness? If you feel fine and the cough is a minor annoyance, it’s likely not a problem.
• Is the cough persistent? A cough that lasts a week or more may need an evaluation.
• Is it getting worse? Coughs usually subside and disappear, so one that worsens may be a cause for concern.
• Is the cough wet, and is there green or yellow mucus? These symptoms could be a sign of pneumonia.
• Does a child’s cough produce a barking sound? It could be croup, and it may pass, but it can also be severe, so don’t delay treatment.
• Does a fever accompany the cough? 

Coughs can rob energy if you have an accompanying illness or are already in poor health. Even a minor cough can be concerning in these circumstances. 

What does a pulmonologist do? 

Our pulmonologist, Dr. Andrew R. Freedman, specializes in diagnosing and treating respiratory system conditions affecting the airways and lungs. Some of the conditions Dr. Freedman treats include: 

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Emphysema
• Lung cancer
• Sleep apnea

Many other conditions can also cause coughing. We can help with any condition that compromises your breathing. 

How to treat an uncontrollable cough

If you or your child develops a sudden, uncontrollable cough, sipping water or sitting in the bathroom with the shower running and creating warm, humid air may help. A cough drop may help, but it could become a choking hazard, so use it with caution. Staying calm may be difficult, so do your best to settle your coughing child. 

Frequent coughing fits are another reason to discuss coughing issues with Dr. Freedman. 

Contact Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine Group, LLC to seek care for a suspicious cough. Call or click to reach our Monroe office, and remember that telehealth appointments are available for 28 states. Plan your visit today.