Cough : Causes ( with or without CXR changes )

Below is a concise, system-based categorization of the most common and notable causes of cough. This overview highlights whether the chest X-ray (CXR) is typically normal or abnormal for each condition and provides key clinical clues to guide initial evaluation. For quick reference, the conditions are grouped by major organ systems (respiratory, cardiac, gastrointestinal, mediastinal, ENT, CNS), along with some rare causes. This structure helps clinicians systematically approach patients presenting with acute, subacute, or chronic cough, ensuring that diagnostic and therapeutic measures target the most likely underlying etiology.

Quick Tips

• Duration:

  • Acute (<3 weeks): Often infectious (viral/bacterial), acute bronchitis, pneumonia.

  • Subacute (3–8 weeks): Post-infectious cough, pertussis, or evolving chronic causes.

  • Chronic (>8 weeks): Commonly UACS, asthma, GERD, plus others listed above.

• Smoking history strongly suggests COPD, chronic bronchitis, or possible malignancy.

• Medication history is vital for ACE-inhibitor–induced cough.

• Red flags (hemoptysis, significant weight loss, abnormal vital signs) warrant prompt imaging and further investigations.