Cough-variant asthma is defined by Mayo Clinic as a constant cough caused by asthma. Coughing is the body's way of protecting itself from foreign airborne irritants and allergens from entering the body. When someone has asthma, the throat and airways are constantly being irritated and inflamed, causing a varying cough. Coughing due to cough-variant asthma is treated by addressing the underlying issues related to asthma.
About Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation in the airways, according to MedlinePlus. Asthma is triggered by allergies or irritants that cause the lungs to become obstructed from inflammation. Allergy-induced asthma is caused by food allergies, airborne allergens or medications. Other forms of asthma are triggered by cold air, excessive exercise or irritants, such as smoke or air pollution.
Asthma Cough
According to the National Lung Health Education Program, one of the most common symptoms of asthma is a varying cough. A cough from asthma may or may not be accompanied with mucus. The body coughs in response to the restricted airflow and throat irritation caused by airway inflammation. As a person coughs, the throat becomes more irritated, which leads to more coughing.
Treatment
The Mayo Clinic states that treating cough-variant asthma begins with treating the asthma. If the asthma is allergy-induced, talk with an allergist to determine the specific allergens causing the asthma attacks. Identify the other triggers of asthma, such as cold air, irritants and physical activity and avoid exposure. Take prescribed medications used to prevent and treat asthma attacks. Address the cough with cough suppressants and throat lozenges, according to the National Lung Health Education Program. Talk with a doctor before taking any mediation.
Complications
A variant cough and asthma can lead to further complications, according to MedlinePlus. Sleep may be affected because of the inability to breathe normally and the constant coughing. Constant coughing can harm the throat, and untreated asthma can create permanent changes in the lungs. In rare cases, cough-variant asthma can lead to death due to lack of oxygen. If someone becomes faint, unconscious or turns blue in color, call 911.
Prevention
To prevent cough-variant asthma, use allergen protestant covers on bedding, eliminate mold in and around the house, avoid cigarette smoke, use an indoor air filter and use hypoallergenic soaps and detergents. Avoid pollution, occupational irritants and pets as much as possible.
