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Lupus is an auto-immune disease in which the immune system cannot distinguish between threats (like viruses and bacteria), and healthy cells and tissue. As a result, the body produces antibodies that inflict cell damage, most commonly targeting joints, skin, kidneys and the nervous system. Join the group and find support for coping with lupus.

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Chronic cough?

theashness
theashness
I'm still in the stage of figuring out what's my UCTD/fibro, what's an infection, etc...

I had bronchitis before Christmas and it took a while to go away. However, I still seem to have a chronic cough. It's been getting worse in the past couple of days, to the point where today I was coughing so hard I was gagging. I don't feel like I have a cold or anything. I see that cough is part of UCTD and also lupus...how do I know when to call my rheumatologist?

Also, can this be caused by any of my meds? I'm on Gabapentin, Plaquenil, and Cymbalta.

Any help is awesome!
nanny1611
nanny1611
I, too, have a nagging cough, but never know if it's lupus or polymyositis. For years I battled a case of bronchitis every year around Thanksgiving until I discovered Olive Leaf Extract. It helps me so much. As soon as I am exposed to someone who is sick, or feel like I'm coming down with something, or begin to cough, I take olive leaf.

Regarding your meds, there are certain medications that can cause a chronic cough, but I don't know which ones they are. Be sure to read the patient information sheet that comes with each med, as it should be listed there. Another option would be to ask the pharmacist whenever you pick up a refill. Best wishes to you.