I’ve noticed a recurring pattern with my cough. It appears frequently and lingers for a long time, especially when the climate changes — starting then and continuing until summer. The cough isn’t completely dry or with much phlegm.
It’s usually not severe, but whenever I have coffee or anything sweet, it suddenly worsens for a day. Drinking hot water eases it, but the cough never fully goes away. Most of the time, it stays mild, yet I keep coughing on and off throughout the day
This is been there for last 2-3yrs
Answers (7)
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you do have an allergic history..but a recurrence, that too that frequent can progress to obstructive airways, post which you will have breathing issues too..so kindly get evaluated in detail and start an early appropriate management .
From your description, this seems to be a chronic or recurrent cough, present for the last 2–3 years and triggered by seasonal changes, sweets, and coffee. The fact that it lingers for months and improves temporarily with hot water suggests it may be related to:
• Allergic airway disease (allergic cough/asthma variant)
• Post-nasal drip from nasal allergy or sinus issues
• Gastroesophageal reflux (acid reflux), which can worsen with coffee or sweets
• Less commonly, other lung conditions that need evaluation
Why it matters
Even if mild, a persistent cough over years should be evaluated. It often indicates an underlying condition like asthma, allergy, or reflux that can be well controlled with the right treatment. Early diagnosis helps improve quality of life and prevents complications.
Supportive measures you can try
• Avoid known triggers such as coffee, sweets, and dust exposure.
• Stay well hydrated and continue warm water sips.
• Steam inhalation and nasal hygiene may help if allergies are involved.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid late-night meals if reflux is suspected.
Take care and wishing you good health.
Dr. Neelesh Guttikonda
MD Pulmonary Medicine | Fellowship in Interventional Pulmonology
Next Steps
Next steps
Since this has been going on for several years, I would strongly recommend a consultation with a chest specialist (pulmonologist). A simple set of tests like a lung function test (PFT) and sometimes an allergy or reflux evaluation can identify the cause and guide treatment. With proper management, chronic cough can be significantly reduced or completely resolved.
Health Tips
Word of reassurance: You’ve managed this for years, but with a clear diagnosis and tailored treatment, you don’t have to keep living with ongoing cough. Consulting a pulmonologist will give you the right direction and long-term relief.
There are various reasons why you could have chronic cough
It could be due to pharyngitis or tonsilitis
Or even due to asthma or copd depending on your history
So you should definitely meet a pulmonologist and get evaluated further.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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