UAE: Surge in Patients with Chronic Coughs amid unstable weather conditions
The number of people seeing UAE doctors for chronic coughs has increased by at least 10% in recent years.
Variations in the weather are frequently associated with an increase in instances since they might bring on respiratory illnesses including bronchitis, asthma, and allergies. There is an uptick in the number of instances of persistent coughs during times of climatic change.
Chronic cough, according to medical professionals, often stems from various respiratory issues, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, and bronchiectasis, among others. Additionally, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also contribute to chronic coughing as stomach acid irritation reaches the throat and respiratory tract, triggering coughing episodes.
Dr. Jimmy Joseph, a specialist in internal medicine and diabetes at Aster Clinic in International City, reported a daily influx of patients with persistent coughs lasting more than 10 days. He emphasized that persistent coughs lasting between three and eight weeks constitute a significant portion of daily cases, indicating the severity of the issue.
Weather changes, including cold weather, rain, and dust, have been identified as common triggers for chronic coughs. These triggers exacerbate conditions such as asthma and bronchitis, leading to an increase in chronic cough cases. Patients experiencing persistent coughs for more than 7–10 days are advised to seek medical advice promptly, especially if accompanied by weight loss, continuous fever, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Dr. Bassam Abdelmonem, a consultant in emergency care at Prime Hospital, reiterated the observation of an increased number of patients with chronic coughs presenting at the emergency room (ER). He emphasized that weather changes are common asthma triggers and can exacerbate allergies and bronchitis, thereby leading to an increase in chronic cough cases.
Determining the underlying cause of chronic cough is crucial for effective treatment. In many cases, more than one underlying condition may contribute to a chronic cough. This underscores the importance of medical evaluation to identify and address the root cause of the persistent cough, ensuring appropriate treatment and management.
Chronic coughs can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, disrupting sleep and leading to feelings of exhaustion. In severe cases, chronic coughing may induce vomiting, dizziness, and even result in rib fractures. Therefore, early diagnosis and management are essential to alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.
