Chronic Cough Won’t Go Away? Next Steps in Chicago, IL

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Chronic Cough Won’t Go Away? A Guide to Your Next Healthcare Steps in Chicago, IL

If you’ve been coughing for weeks, sometimes with mucus, and feeling a heavy sensation in your chest—especially in the mornings—it’s completely understandable to feel concerned. Adding shortness of breath to the mix only heightens that worry. You’re searching for answers because this persistent cough isn’t resolving on its own, and you want to know what to do next.

This post is here to help you take calm and clear next steps. We’ll explain what kinds of healthcare providers can evaluate your symptoms, what tests or procedures might be done, and what you might expect to pay out-of-pocket in the Chicago area. You’re in the right place to learn how to find the care you need with confidence.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Chicago, IL

Based on your symptoms, several different medical specialists could be a great place to start. Here are the common types of providers who often handle chronic cough and related chest symptoms:

  • Family Practice: A family practice doctor is a generalist who can diagnose and treat many health issues. They can evaluate your cough, order necessary tests, and refer you to specialists if needed.
  • Internal Medicine: Internists specialize in adult medicine and often manage more complex health problems. They are well equipped to investigate a persistent cough and related breathing difficulties.
  • Allergy/Immunology: An allergist or immunologist looks for allergies or immune system issues that may cause or worsen your cough, such as asthma or allergic reactions.
  • Pulmonary Disease: Pulmonologists focus specifically on lung and respiratory conditions. If your cough is linked to a lung problem, this specialist can provide detailed testing and treatment.

Each of these providers can offer expert evaluation, so the right choice depends on your comfort level and the severity of your symptoms.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here’s a breakdown of common procedures these providers may perform, along with estimated self-pay costs in Chicago, IL. This will give you a sense of what to expect during your initial visits.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: This is a standard doctor visit where you discuss your symptoms, get a physical exam, and begin figuring out what’s causing your cough.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $202.91 (typically ranges from $152.18 to $253.64)
    This estimate is based on 854 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: X-ray of chest, 2 views (CPT Code: 71046)
    Purpose: A chest X-ray helps the doctor see your lungs and chest structure to check for infections, fluid, or other problems.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $46.96 (typically ranges from $31.93 to $61.98)
    This estimate is based on 34 providers in Chicago.

  • Procedure: Routine electrocardiogram (ECG) with interpretation (CPT Code: 93000)
    Purpose: This test checks how your heart is functioning, since chest symptoms can sometimes be related to heart issues.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $32.01 (typically ranges from $18.16 to $45.86)
    This estimate is based on 160 providers in the area.

  • Procedure: Blood sample collection (CPT Code: 36415)
    Purpose: A blood test can look for signs of infection, inflammation, or other causes of your cough.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $13.20 (typically ranges from $9.90 to $16.50)
    This estimate is based on 343 providers locally.

  • Procedure: Automated urinalysis test (CPT Code: 81003)
    Purpose: This test checks your urine to rule out infections that might be causing systemic symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $7.22 (typically ranges from $2.63 to $11.81)
    This estimate is based on 79 providers in Chicago.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: An internal medicine doctor will provide a thorough evaluation and may order additional tests based on your symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $199.68 (typically ranges from $149.76 to $249.60)
    This is based on 1099 providers in Chicago.

  • Procedure: X-ray of chest, 2 views (CPT Code: 71046)
    Purpose: Chest X-rays check your lungs for infections or other conditions contributing to your cough.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $49.82 (typically ranges from $37.37 to $62.28)
    Available from 17 providers in the area.

  • Procedure: Routine electrocardiogram (ECG) (CPT Code: 93000)
    Purpose: Heart function evaluation to rule out cardiac causes of chest discomfort or cough.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $34.46 (typically ranges from $18.30 to $50.62)
    Includes 339 providers.

  • Procedure: Blood sample collection (CPT Code: 36415)
    Purpose: Blood tests to analyze your health status and rule out infections or other concerns.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $13.30 (typically ranges from $9.97 to $16.62)
    401 providers offer this service.

Visit with an Allergy/Immunology Specialist

  • Procedure: Established patient office visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Evaluation for allergies or immune issues that might be causing or worsening your cough.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $198.35 (typically ranges from $148.76 to $247.94)
    Based on 53 providers locally.

  • Procedure: Test to measure expiratory airflow and volume (CPT Code: 94010)
    Purpose: This lung function test checks for asthma or other breathing problems affecting airflow.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $41.39 (typically ranges from $27.43 to $55.34)
    Provided by 27 specialists nearby.

  • Procedure: Inhalation treatment for airway obstruction or sputum production (CPT Code: 94640)
    Purpose: A treatment to help open airways and ease coughing if obstruction is present.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $19.27 (typically ranges from $11.54 to $27.00)
    Available from 2 providers.

Visit with a Pulmonary Disease Specialist

  • Procedure: Established patient office visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A pulmonologist will provide a focused lung exam and specialized testing based on your persistent cough and shortness of breath.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $186.22 (typically ranges from $139.67 to $232.78)
    144 providers in Chicago offer this service.

  • Procedure: Test to measure expiratory airflow and volume (CPT Code: 94010)
    Purpose: Detailed lung function testing to assess airflow and detect conditions like asthma or COPD.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $31.60 (typically ranges from $16.06 to $47.14)
    Provided by 52 pulmonologists nearby.

  • Procedure: Test to examine how well lungs exchange gases (CPT Code: 94729)
    Purpose: This test measures how well your lungs transfer oxygen into your blood and remove carbon dioxide.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $33.27 (typically ranges from $17.38 to $49.17)
    Available from 101 providers.

  • Procedure: Inhalation treatment for airway obstruction or sputum production (CPT Code: 94640)
    Purpose: A therapy option to help relieve airway blockages and clear mucus.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $19.13 (typically ranges from $11.52 to $26.74)
    Offered by 1 local provider.

  • Procedure: X-ray of chest, 2 views (CPT Code: 71046)
    Purpose: X-rays help visualize lung problems causing chronic cough and chest heaviness.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $57.47 (typically ranges from $42.34 to $72.60)
    Only 1 provider currently listed for this procedure in pulmonary specialty.

Your most important next action is to see a healthcare professional who can take a close look at your symptoms and start appropriate testing or treatment. Here’s how to move forward confidently:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Reach out to a Family Practice or Internal Medicine doctor first if you want a general evaluation. Alternatively, seek out Pulmonary or Allergy/Immunology specialists if you feel your breathing issues are more severe or linked to asthma or allergies.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down details about your cough — how long it’s lasted, any mucus or changes, if you feel chest heaviness or shortness of breath, and any other symptoms. Having questions ready will also help you get the most from your appointment.
  3. Discuss Costs: When booking, ask the provider’s office about expected fees. The cost estimates here are typical for self-pay patients in Chicago but can vary by provider and your insurance.
  4. Stay Positive and Proactive: Seeking professional care is the right step toward understanding and addressing your persistent cough. Early evaluation decreases stress and gets you on the path to relief.

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and estimates only. It does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for personalized diagnosis and treatment.