Cough Diagnosis
How will your doctor diagnose you with this condition? Learn about the tests, exams, processes, and other information relating to the diagnosis of Cough below.
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How to Diagnose Cough
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Acute cough is usually diagnosed by its accompanying symptoms.
In the diagnosis and assessment of chronic cough, your doctor will look for symptoms and signs that suggest an underlying cause. Tests may include:
- Chest x-rays -a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, in this case the chest
- CT scan of the chest-a type of x-ray that uses a computer to create images of structures inside the body, in this case the chest
- Analysis of a sputum sample
- Blood test to check for infection
- Skin tests if allergies are suspected
- TB skin test for Tuberculosis
- Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) -to measure lung volumes and air flow rates
- Bronchoscopy-insertion of a long, thin instrument to view the interior of the airways and collect samples for further testing
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Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor
implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A
MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment
or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright ©2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights
reserved. Source: EBSCO
