Chronic Cough

Alarmist Scenario: Lung cancer or emphysema.

More Likely Cause: A cold, acute bronchitis, postnasal drip from a cold or allergies, or acid reflux.

Reality Check: “Symptoms of lung cancer do not come on suddenly,” says pulmonologist Norman H. Edelman. “Cigarette smoking causes 87 percent of lung cancers, so if you don’t smoke, your risk is low.” Smoking is also the leading cause of emphysema.

Rx: If your cough lasts more than four weeks, see a doctor. If you cough mostly at night, avoid eating within three hours of bedtime, since gastric reflux can contribute to a cough, says Edelman. (If you have seasonal allergies, see A Quick Guide to Allergy Relief for ways to reduce allergens in your home.)