Cough Differential Diagnosis

The following is a differential diagnosis for a cough, categorized for clarity and emphasis on potential severity.

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Acute Bronchitis: This is often the most common cause of cough, typically resulting from a viral upper respiratory infection. It's characterized by a cough that may produce mucus, often accompanied by other symptoms like sore throat and runny nose.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Asthma: A chronic condition causing inflammation and constriction of the airways, leading to cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. It can be triggered by various factors, including allergens, respiratory infections, and irritants.
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Includes conditions like emphysema and chronic bronchitis, characterized by long-term breathing problems and cough, often with a history of smoking.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: An allergic reaction to airborne substances like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, leading to symptoms including cough, sneezing, runny or itchy nose, and nasal congestion.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus can cause a cough, often accompanied by heartburn and regurgitation.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Pneumonia: An infection of the lungs that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Symptoms include cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. It requires prompt treatment to prevent serious complications.
  • Pulmonary Embolism: A blockage in one of the arteries in the lungs, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms may include sudden onset of cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
  • Lung Cancer: A persistent cough can be an early symptom of lung cancer, especially if it's accompanied by weight loss, chest pain, or coughing up blood.
  • Tuberculosis (TB): A bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms include a chronic cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that results in severe damage to the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. It's characterized by persistent cough, frequent lung infections, and poor growth or weight gain in children.
  • Sarcoidosis: A condition in which inflammatory cells clump together in various organs, including the lungs, causing symptoms like cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
  • Bronchiectasis: A condition where parts of the airways are permanently enlarged, leading to chronic cough, frequent infections, and excessive mucus production.

Each of these diagnoses has distinct characteristics and potential consequences, emphasizing the importance of a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of a cough.