Persistent Cough, Hoarseness, and Loss of Appetite: ENT Concerns

Hoarseness, persistent cough, decreased appetite, and a sensation of foreign body in the nose?

Hello Doctor, my father has recently been experiencing persistent coughing.
Initially, we thought it was a cold, and after seeing a doctor and taking medication, he felt somewhat better, but he still coughs involuntarily throughout the day, sometimes for a long time, and at times he doesn't cough at all.
He often presses on his nose, feeling like there is mucus or nasal congestion, but after trying for a long time, nothing comes out.
Recently, he has started to speak very softly and feels a burning sensation in his throat.
Although drinking loquat syrup has helped a bit, it only lasts for a few minutes before he starts to speak softly again.
We also noticed that he, who usually has a big appetite, is now only eating a few bites of rice and then stops.
He also tends to doze off involuntarily.
Could this be the worst-case scenario that I'm worried about? I've been reading some articles online...

Nǚ'ér, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/01/13

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, common causes of chronic cough include postnasal drip, gastroesophageal reflux, or asthma.
Based on the symptoms you described, it is possible that your cough is caused by postnasal drip.
Prolonged irritation from the drip can also lead to inflammation and swelling around the vocal cords.
It is advisable to seek a detailed evaluation if there is no improvement after taking medication for more than two weeks.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2013/01/13

More Info

It sounds like your father is experiencing a combination of concerning symptoms that warrant further medical evaluation. Persistent cough, hoarseness, and loss of appetite can be indicative of various underlying conditions, some of which may require prompt attention.
Firstly, the persistent cough could be due to several reasons, including but not limited to respiratory infections, allergies, or even chronic conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If the cough has lasted for an extended period, it is essential to consider that it might not simply be a lingering effect of a cold or flu.
The hoarseness, or changes in voice quality, can be associated with inflammation of the vocal cords, which can occur due to excessive coughing, infections, or even gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD can cause stomach acid to irritate the throat and vocal cords, leading to hoarseness and discomfort.
Loss of appetite is another significant symptom that should not be overlooked. It can be a response to various factors, including physical illness, emotional distress, or even side effects from medications. In older adults, loss of appetite can lead to malnutrition, which can further complicate existing health issues.

The fact that your father is experiencing a sensation of something being stuck in his nose, along with nasal congestion, could suggest a sinus issue or nasal obstruction. This could be due to allergies, nasal polyps, or even a deviated septum. If he feels the need to press on his nose frequently, it might indicate discomfort or a feeling of blockage that needs to be addressed.

Given these symptoms, it is crucial to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. An ENT can conduct a thorough examination, which may include a laryngoscopy to visualize the throat and vocal cords, as well as imaging studies to assess the sinuses and nasal passages.
It is understandable to feel anxious about the potential for serious conditions, especially after researching symptoms online. However, it's important to remember that many conditions can cause similar symptoms, and not all of them are severe. The best course of action is to seek professional medical advice, as they can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan based on a comprehensive evaluation.

In the meantime, encourage your father to stay hydrated, avoid irritants such as smoke or strong odors, and rest his voice as much as possible. If he experiences any worsening of symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, severe pain, or high fever, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while the symptoms your father is experiencing are concerning, they can be addressed effectively with the right medical care. An ENT specialist will be able to provide the necessary evaluations and determine the appropriate treatment to help alleviate his symptoms and improve his overall health.

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