We are know it as one of the symptoms of the cold and allergy season - the annoying, hacking cough.  We treat it with over-the-counter medications like cough syrup and cough drops; use home remedies like menthol salve, hot soup and steaming showers; and basically just suffer through until it goes away.

But what if it doesn't go away?  Or keeps you from getting sleep at night and working well during the day?  What if your child is the one with the cough that just won't go away.

Here are some words from experts on when a cough is just a cough and when it may be something else.

MILWAUKEE—Do you or your child wake up coughing, or have a prolonged cough lasting for weeks? Parents should recognize that this is something potentially serious requiring medical attention, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).

“Cough is the most common respiratory symptom for which patients seek medical attention,” said Alan B. Goldsobel, MD, FAAAAI, and Chair of the AAAAI’s Cough Committee. “Cough protects the body by removing mucus and irritating particles from the respiratory tract. Coughing is a useful function and does not always mean there is a problem with your child. However, coughing at night, after going to sleep indicates the need for medical attention.”

Cough is a symptom with a variety of causes including:

1. Viral upper respiratory tract infections
2. Asthma
3. Nasal and sinus disease
4. Stomach and esophageal problems such as GERD
5. An inhaled foreign body
6. Habit
7. Environmental irritants

The good news is that relief is possible for almost all patients with the help of a knowledgeable expert, such as an allergist/immunologist. This requires a thorough patient history, physical examination and in some cases selected testing.

When to see an allergy/asthma specialist
The AAAAI's Referral Guidelines provide information to assist patients and health care professionals in determining when a patient may need consultation or ongoing specialty care by the allergist/immunologist. Patients should see an allergist/immunologist if they:

1. Have a cough that lasts 3-8 weeks or more
2. Have a cough that coexists with asthma
3. Have coexisting chronic cough and nasal symptoms
4. Have a chronic cough and tobacco use or exposure

To find an allergist/immunologist in your area or to learn more about allergies and asthma, visit the AAAAI Website.

The AAAAI represents allergists, asthma specialists, clinical immunologists, allied health professionals and others with a special interest in the research and treatment of allergic disease. Established in 1943, the AAAAI has more than 6,500 members in the United States, Canada and 60 other countries. The AAAAI serves as an advocate to the public by providing educational information and a physician referral directory through the AAAAI Website.

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