This page will help you answer your questions.
What is a cough?
A cough is an important natural defense mechanism of the respiratory system, helping to clear the airways of mucus and irritants, such as dust and smoke. A cough can be dry, causing a tickling sensation without producing mucus, or wet, producing mucus to help the body clear the airways. While coughing is a natural way to keep the throat and airways clean, excessive coughing may indicate the presence of a disease or disorder.
Acute cough, which often occurs with an upper respiratory infection, is usually temporary and resolves within three weeks. Chronic cough, lasting more than eight weeks, can lead to significant health problems, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, coughing-induced fainting, stress-related urinary incontinence, and missed work. In general, cough is rarely a sign of something serious, but it can also serve as a warning for various respiratory and non-respiratory diseases, making it one of the common reasons adults seek medical treatment.
What are the types of cough?
A cough can be without mucus, called a dry cough, or with mucus, called a wet cough. Cough can also be classified into three types:
Acute cough: Usually starts suddenly and is often caused by a cold, flu, or sinus infection, and typically resolves within 3 weeks.
Subacute cough: Lasts from 3 to 8 weeks.
Chronic cough: Lasts more than 8 weeks.
In most cases, a cough resolves within 3 weeks without the need for treatment.
What are the causes of coughing?
Short-term cough causes (acute and subacute):
Upper respiratory tract infections (such as a cold or flu).
Lower respiratory tract infections (such as acute bronchitis or pneumonia).
Allergies (such as allergic rhinitis).
Exacerbation of chronic conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Inhalation of dust or smoke.
Causes of persistent (chronic) cough:
Asthma (with symptoms, such as wheezing).
Chronic allergies.
Smoking (which may indicate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
Bronchiectasis.
Gastroesophageal reflux (where stomach acid irritates the throat).
Certain medications used for blood pressure and heart conditions, such as ACE inhibitors.
Causes of cough in children:
Respiratory infections, asthma, or gastroesophageal reflux.
Bronchitis.
Croup (a distinctive cough with a barking sound).
Whooping cough.
Sometimes, persistent coughing in children may be a sign of long-term conditions, such as cystic fibrosis.
How to manage a cough?
If you smoke, quitting may improve your cough.
Get plenty of rest.
Drink plenty of fluids to loosen mucus.
For a dry cough, try cough lozenges or hard candy, but avoid giving them to children.
Use a humidifier or take a steam bath to increase air moisture and soothe a dry throat.
Treat the underlying cause as directed by a healthcare provider.
If you have seasonal allergies:
Stay indoors during high pollen times, usually in the morning.
Keep windows closed and use air conditioning.
Avoid fans that draw air from outside.
Shower and change clothes after being outdoors.
Use antihistamines as needed.
When should you see a doctor?
A cough that lasts more than 3 weeks, especially if severe.
Coughing up blood.
Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or chest pain.
Swelling and pain on the side of your neck (swollen lymph nodes).
Unexplained weight loss or night sweats.
Other concerning symptoms, such as a persistent change in your voice or lumps in the neck.
A history of heart disease, swelling in the legs, or a cough that worsens when lying down (may indicate heart failure).
Contact with someone who has tuberculosis.
Fever that may indicate a bacterial infection.
Thick, foul-smelling mucus that is yellow or green (may indicate a bacterial infection).
Additional signs in children:
A child under 3 months with a temperature of 38°C or higher.
A child over 3 months with a temperature of 39°C or higher.
Fewer wet diapers, or a diaper remaining dry for more than 12 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Are antibiotics prescribed to treat a cough?
Antibiotics are usually not prescribed for a cough. A doctor will only prescribe them if needed, for example, if you have a bacterial infection or are at risk of complications.
What should I do if I have asthma or a chronic lung disease?
If you have year-round allergies, asthma, or any chronic lung disease, make sure to take the medications prescribed by your healthcare provider. Use dust-mite-proof covers, an air purifier, avoid pets, and other triggers.
Are there drinks that help relieve a cough?
Warm drinks may help ease a cough, such as warm water with lemon and honey.
