Why Does My Cough Not Stop? A Guide to Your Next Healthcare Steps in Long Beach, CA
Why Does My Cough Not Stop? A Guide to Your Next Healthcare Steps in Long Beach, CA
Having a cough that just won’t go away, especially when it lasts for weeks, can be frustrating and concerning. You don’t smoke, and the persistent irritation might leave you wondering what’s causing it and what you should do next. It’s completely normal to feel worried, but you’re not alone—and you are in the right place to find some clarity.
This guide is designed to help you understand the potential next steps you can take in Long Beach, CA. We’ll cover who you should consider seeing for your symptoms, what kinds of tests or visits you might expect, and what typical costs look like if you’re paying out of pocket. Our goal is to give you clear, straightforward information so you feel confident moving forward.
Who to See for Your Symptoms in Long Beach, CA
When you have a persistent cough, there are a few types of healthcare providers who can help diagnose and treat the issue. Here are the most relevant doctors for your symptoms:
- Pulmonary Disease Specialist: These doctors specialize in lung and respiratory conditions. If your cough is connected to issues like asthma, chronic bronchitis, or other lung problems, a pulmonary specialist is an expert who can help.
- Internal Medicine Doctor: Internal medicine doctors focus on adult health and can manage complex or ongoing health problems. They are well equipped to investigate persistent cough causes that may be linked to internal organs or systemic conditions.
- Family Practice Doctor: Family practice physicians are generalists who offer care for a wide range of health concerns, including coughs. They’re a great first stop to evaluate your symptoms, provide treatment, or refer you if specialized care is needed.
What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs
Here is an overview of typical procedures related to cough evaluation from local providers in Long Beach, along with estimated self-pay costs:
Visit with a Pulmonary Disease Specialist
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Procedure: Established Patient Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: This office visit includes a detailed discussion and examination of your lungs and breathing to understand your persistent cough better.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $211.34 (ranges from $158.51 to $264.18)
This estimate is based on 75 providers in the Long Beach area. -
Procedure: Chest X-ray, 2 views (CPT Code: 71046)
Purpose: An X-ray helps visualize your lungs and chest to detect infections, fluid, or other issues causing your cough.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $77.64 (ranges from $43.02 to $112.26)
This estimate is based on 6 providers in the Long Beach area. -
Procedure: Expiratory Airflow Test (CPT Code: 94010)
Purpose: This test measures your lung function, airflow, and volume to evaluate possible obstruction or asthma contributing to your cough.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $48.81 (ranges from $24.80 to $72.82)
This estimate is based on 29 providers in the Long Beach area. -
Procedure: Inhalation Treatment (CPT Code: 94640)
Purpose: If you have airway obstruction or produce sputum, this treatment can help open your airways to relieve symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $28.07 (ranges from $12.62 to $43.52)
This estimate is based on 8 providers in the Long Beach area.
Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor
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Procedure: Established Patient Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: A thorough office visit to examine your cough and evaluate possible causes within your internal health.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $209.33 (ranges from $157.00 to $261.66)
This estimate is based on 602 providers in the Long Beach area. -
Procedure: New Patient Visit, 30-44 minutes (CPT Code: 99203)
Purpose: This is your first detailed visit to establish care and discuss your ongoing cough and related concerns.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $191.60 (ranges from $143.70 to $239.50)
This estimate is based on 66 providers in the Long Beach area. -
Procedure: Diagnostic Exam of Lung Airway with Endoscope (CPT Code: 31622)
Purpose: This more specialized procedure examines your lung airways closely if initial tests are inconclusive.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $441.55 (ranges from $331.16 to $551.94)
This estimate is based on 1 provider in the Long Beach area.
Visit with a Family Practice Doctor
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Procedure: Established Patient Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: General check-up and evaluation of your cough, including physical exam and guidance on next steps.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $212.06 (ranges from $159.05 to $265.08)
This estimate is based on 574 providers in the Long Beach area. -
Procedure: Chest X-ray, 2 views (CPT Code: 71046)
Purpose: An X-ray can catch signs of infection or other lung problems contributing to the cough.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $59.65 (ranges from $41.04 to $78.26)
This estimate is based on 63 providers in the Long Beach area. -
Procedure: Detection Test for Respiratory Viruses (CPT Code: 87428)
Purpose: This tests for viruses like flu and COVID-19 that could be causing your symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $99.17 (ranges from $57.28 to $141.07)
This estimate is based on 10 providers in the Long Beach area.
How to Interpret the Cost Estimates
Healthcare pricing in the U.S. can feel like shopping at a market where prices vary widely depending on who you talk to. The cost ranges you see represent this kind of “haggling” environment—prices you might be charged can be higher or lower depending on various factors.
- The maximum cost shown is usually just below what providers initially ask for (the “charged amount”).
- The minimum cost is generally just above what Medicare considers a fair payment (“Medicare allowed amount”). Sometimes providers accept this lower rate if they want to be competitive or are covering their costs without profit.
These estimates give you a ballpark figure but the actual cost can differ based on your specific case or negotiation.
Know Your Rights
You are entitled to a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) from your healthcare provider if you are paying out of pocket. By law:
- Doctors must provide you a GFE that outlines expected charges if you ask for it or schedule your visit at least 3 business days ahead.
- Although not required, many providers offer self-pay discounts if you ask before your appointment. Don’t hesitate to inquire: “What’s the cash price if I pay upfront?”
- You have the right to request an itemized bill to review charges for accuracy and dispute any billing errors or unreasonable fees.
- You may also ask for the specific CPT codes and billing details to understand what you are paying for.
- Many states protect patients from unfair billing, especially if you don’t have insurance.
Your Recommended Next Steps
Taking action is the best way to find relief and answers about your persistent cough:
- Schedule an Appointment: Contact a pulmonary disease specialist, internal medicine doctor, or family practice physician to discuss your symptoms.
- Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptom history, including how long the cough has lasted, any triggers you’ve noticed, and questions you want to ask.
- Discuss Costs: When booking, confirm the estimated costs and ask about any available self-pay discounts or payment plans.
- Stay Encouraged: Seeking professional advice is the right step for your health and peace of mind. You’re doing the right thing by investigating your symptoms.
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 blog post provides general informational content and cost estimates based on available data as of June 2025. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.