Cough Specialist

Michael N. Newton MD Our Services Cough

Michael N. Newton MD

Pulmonology & Sleep Specialists located in Tampa, FL

A cough that won’t go away may be the first sign of an underlying lung disorder. You can receive an accurate diagnosis and the treatment you need for a chronic cough at the office of Michael N. Newton MD, in Tampa, Florida. Dr. Newton and his team use advanced technology to evaluate your lung function and identify the underlying cause of your cough. He also designs an individual treatment plan to resolve your cough and preserve the function of your lungs. Call the office of Michael N. Newton MD to request a diagnostic evaluation or schedule one online today.

Cough Q & A

What causes a cough?

A cough is your body’s natural response to irritations in your throat. An irritant stimulates the nerves in your airways to send a message to your brain. These signals cause the muscles in your abdomen and chest to force air out of your lungs to eliminate the irritant.

Everyone coughs on occasion, but if you develop a persistent cough, it may indicate you have a more serious condition.

Colds, the flu virus, and lung infections can cause an acute cough that resolves within 10 days. The underlying cause of chronic cough may include:

  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Bronchitis
  • Emphysema
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

A chronic cough can also be the result of lung cancer.

When should I seek treatment for a cough?

You should schedule a consultation with Dr. Newton if you have a cough that lasts longer than two weeks, even if you’re using over-the-counter medications.

A medical evaluation is also important when you have other symptoms in addition to a cough, such as:

  • Wheezing
  • Fainting
  • Ankle swelling
  • Shortness of breath
  • Unexplained weight loss

If you’re coughing up a lot of phlegm, or if phlegm is green, yellow, or bloody, don’t delay scheduling an appointment with Dr. Newton and the team.

How is a cough treated?

To relieve a persistent cough and throat irritation, make sure you drink water and other fluids to stay hydrated and keep your throat moisturized. You can also use honey in tea to soothe a sore throat.

Because chronic coughing can cause muscle pain and dizziness, you should try and rest as much as possible.

Depending on the diagnostic testing results, Dr. Newton creates a treatment plan to address the underlying cause of your cough. Your plan may include medications to control acid or clear an infection. You may also need medicines to manage allergies or asthma.

If your cough relates to COPD or lung cancer, Dr. Newton works closely with you on a long-term treatment plan to manage your condition and protect your respiratory health.

If you need a diagnostic evaluation for a chronic cough, call the office of Michael N. Newton MD or schedule an appointment online today.

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