This document provides guidance on evaluating patients presenting with subacute or chronic cough lasting 3-8 weeks or longer. It recommends first considering the suspected etiology based on history and exam, then evaluating and treating accordingly, such as stopping ACE inhibitors, using antihistamines for upper airway cough, or testing for asthma. If the cough does not improve after intervention, further testing with chest X-ray is suggested to check for underlying lung disease.

1. Evaluation of subacute (3-8 weeks) or chronic (>8 weeks) cough
Suspected etiology on
history & physical exam
Evaluate & treat as indicated
ACE inhibitors → Stop ACE
Upper airway cough syndrome → 1st generation H1 blocker
Asthma → pulmonary function tests
GERD → Empiric PPI
No improvement after intervention
Chest X-ray
• Parenchymal disease
• Purulent
sputum/immunocompromised
• No specific etiology