From the Guidelines
You should follow up with your healthcare provider to determine the cause of persistent coughing fits one month after a walking pneumonia diagnosis, as it may be related to postinfectious cough, which can last for several weeks after the initial infection. According to the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) evidence-based clinical practice guidelines 1, postinfectious cough is a common complication of acute respiratory infections, and its diagnosis should be considered when a patient complains of cough that has been present for at least 3 weeks, but not more than 8 weeks, after the initial symptoms. The guidelines suggest that the optimal treatment for postinfectious cough is not known, but therapy with antibiotics has no role, as the cause is not bacterial infection 1.
Some possible treatments that your doctor might consider include:
- A trial of inhaled ipratropium to attenuate the cough 1
- Inhaled corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation, especially if the cough is severe and persists despite other treatments 1
- Prescribing 30 to 40 mg of prednisone per day for a short, finite period of time to alleviate severe paroxysms of cough 1
- Central acting antitussive agents such as codeine and dextromethorphan if other measures fail 1
It's essential to note that Tessalon Perles (benzonatate) can help numb throat receptors that trigger coughing, but it does not address the underlying cause of the cough. Your doctor may also recommend additional tests, such as a chest X-ray, to ensure that the pneumonia is resolving properly and to rule out any complications. In the meantime, it's crucial to stay well-hydrated, use a humidifier, avoid irritants like smoke, and consider honey for natural cough relief. Rest remains important for full recovery, as pushing yourself too hard can prolong symptoms.
From the Research
Possible Causes of Persistent Coughing Fits
- The patient's history of atypical pneumonia (walking pneumonia) one month ago, caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, may be a contributing factor to the persistent coughing fits 2.
- The study by 3 found that some children with Mycoplasma pneumonia have reduced pulmonary gas diffusion after recovery from the illness, which could lead to persistent coughing fits.
- Another possible cause is the patient's use of Tessalon Perles (Benzonatate), which may not be effective in treating the underlying cause of the cough 4.
Underlying Conditions
- The patient may have an underlying condition, such as a structural abnormality or immunological abnormality, that is contributing to the persistent coughing fits 5.
- The study by 5 found that chronic pneumonias are usually caused by slow-growing organisms, such as fungi or mycobacteria, which could be a possible cause of the patient's symptoms.
Diagnostic Considerations
- The diagnosis of pneumonia is typically based on clinical features, such as cough, fever, and pleuritic chest pain, as well as lung imaging 6, 4.
- The patient's symptoms and medical history should be carefully evaluated to determine the underlying cause of the persistent coughing fits and to guide further treatment 6, 4.