What is the cause of persistent cough?
Patient: Thank you.I have a persistant cough which seems to have got worse over time.I do not have any cold or flue symptoms but a few weeks ago I noticed that I couldn't sing anymore as my voice keeps cracking and my throat has become dry and now  feels a little swollen.I don't have any mucus or phlegm.What do you think could be the cause of this? Doctor: Hello dear, thanks for your question on HCM. Chronic dry cough can be due to1. Chronic lung infection like tuberculosis and fungal infection. 2. Bronchitis3.  Vocal cord pathology. So better to consult pulmonologist and get done1. Clinical examination of respiratory system. 2. Chest x ray. 3. PFT ( pulmonary function test ). Chest x ray is needed to rule out lung infection. PFT is needed to rule out bronchitis. If all are normal then consult ENT doctor to rule out vocal cord pathology. Since you are singer, vocal cord damage can be there.So rule out this.