subacute cough
Last reviewed 01/2018
The first step in management is to identify whether the cough preceded an obvious respiratory infection (1).
Post infectious cough may result from
- postnasal drip
- upper airway irritation
- mucus accumulation
- a manifestation of bronchial hyperresponsiveness that may be associated with asthma
- pneumonia
- an acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis (1).
Infections such as pertussis (whooping cough) should also be considered.
Suspect pertusis in a patient:
- with an acute cough lasting for 14 days or more with at least one of the following symptoms, post-tussive vomiting, apnoea or whoop
- who has cough for any duration and who has been in contact with a confirmed case of pertusis in the preceding 3 weeks (2)
If the subacute cough is not preceded by an obvious respiratory infection it should be regarded as a chronic cough and should be evaluated and managed accordingly (1).
Reference:
- 1. Pratter MR, et al. An empiric integrative approach to the management of cough: ACCP evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Chest. 2006;129(1 Suppl):222S-231S
- 2. Dodhia H et al. UK guidelines for use of erythromycin chemoprophylaxis in persons exposed to pertussis. J Public Health Med. 2002;24(3):200-6