Scenario: A 56 year-old man with a history of hypertension, diabetes, environmental allergies, and colon polyps presents to the office with a complaint of persistent dry hacking cough that does not improve with over-the-counter treatment with antitussives and allergy medications. The man reports that he has had the cough for 3 months and is tired of the coughing spells he experiences. His medical history reveals that he started taking Lisinopril 6 months before this appointment, has taken an over-the-counter allergy medication for several years, had his last colon polyps removed 6 years ago, and his blood pressure today is 145/70. Other medications include metformin XR 500 mg daily, aspirin 81 mg once daily, and loratadine 10 mg daily. The physical exam is negative for any issues other than his mild neuropathy from long-term diabetes. The cough is noted to be dry and hacking as the patient has described. The man is not in acute distress.
1. What questions would have been asked as part of the medical history?
2. What would you assess for/what body systems would you assess as part of the physical exam?
3. Are there any tests that should be completed before producing a diagnosis? Why or why not?
4. Based on the medical history and physical exam, what is the likely diagnosis? Include your differentials.
5. What is the treatment for this patient, including education? Any medications should include full prescribing information.
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