Lung Health: Your Ultimate Guide

When it goes from tiresome to troubling

Everyone coughs from time to time — it’s a common reflex action that clears your throat of mucus or foreign irritants. But a number of conditions can cause a more serious, persistent cough that can cause a host of other symptoms, such as sleeplessness, urinary incontinence and even broken ribs. A cough typically falls into one of two categories: acute and chronic.

Common acute causes (less than 3 weeks in duration)

Common cold

Flu

Inhaling an irritant

Pneumonia

Whooping cough

Common chronic causes (four to eight weeks in duration)

Allergies

Asthma

Bronchitis

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Postnasal drip

COPD

How we can help

If your cough lasts several weeks, you have a cough and fever over 100 °F, or you’re coughing up discolored or bloody mucus, you need medical intervention and treatment to prevent an increase in severity or the development of other symptoms.

Dr. Nader Mahmood of North Jersey Pulmonary Associates is at the forefront of pulmonary medicine modalities. He will perform a series of diagnostic tests in order to develop an effective treatment plan that’s right for you. Treatment may involve medications – such as antibiotics or inhalers – or pulmonary rehabilitation to reduce coughing.

Your trusted source for pulmonary health

With our two convenient locations in Clifton and Ridgewood, NJ, Dr. Mahmood and his staff are dedicated treating the underlying cause of your cough — and silencing it. Please reach out to our office to make an appointment at (973) 321-1670.

Frequently Asked Questions

At North Jersey Pulmonary Associates, we firmly believe good communication is vital to building long-lasting and trusting partnerships in care. We strive to address every question and concern our patients may have so they always feel well-informed, valued, and comfortable. We welcome your inquiries and look forward to telling your more about the treatments we provide.

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Why does cold air make it harder to breathe?

Cold, dry air can irritate the airways and cause them to tighten, especially for patients with asthma or other lung conditions. This can lead to shortness of breath, coughing, or chest discomfort during colder months.

Can dry air or using a humidifier affect my lungs?

Yes - both overly dry air and excess humidity can impact your respiratory system. Dry air may irritate your airways, while too much humidity can promote mold or allergens. Finding the right balance is important for lung health.

Can strong smells or odors trigger breathing problems?

Certain odors, chemicals, or environmental irritants can trigger symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath, particularly in individuals with asthma or sensitive airways.

What are the most common signs of sleep apnea?

Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping during sleep, daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Many patients don’t realize they have sleep apnea until evaluated by a specialist.

Do I need a sleep study if I snore?

Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, but persistent or loud snoring - especially with other symptoms - may require a sleep study to properly diagnose and treat the condition.

When should I be concerned about a chronic cough?

A cough lasting more than 8 weeks is considered chronic and should be evaluated. It may be related to asthma, GERD, infections, or other lung conditions that require proper diagnosis and treatment.

Why do I feel short of breath even when resting?

Shortness of breath at rest can be caused by a variety of conditions, including asthma, COPD, anxiety, or other pulmonary issues. A thorough evaluation can help determine the underlying cause.

Can asthma develop later in life?

Yes - adult-onset asthma is more common than many people realize. Symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness should be evaluated, even if you’ve never had asthma before.

What does a pulmonologist treat?

A pulmonologist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including asthma, COPD, chronic cough, sleep apnea, and more.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your first visit typically includes a review of your symptoms, medical history, and possibly diagnostic testing such as pulmonary function tests. This helps create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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