Cough

Why do you cough?

A cough is a reflex action that helps clear the airways of irritants, mucus, or foreign particles. It is a common symptom of various respiratory conditions, infections, allergies, and environmental factors. Coughing is a protective mechanism designed to prevent substances from entering or obstructing the respiratory system and to expel substances that are already present in the airways.

Types of Cough

Coughs can be classified into two main types based on their duration:

1. Acute Cough: An acute cough typically lasts for less than three weeks and is often associated with viral respiratory infections such as the common cold, flu (influenza), bronchitis, or pneumonia. Other causes of acute cough can include allergies, irritants (such as smoke or pollutants), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or postnasal drip from conditions like sinusitis or allergies.
2. Chronic Cough: A chronic cough persists for more than eight weeks and may indicate an underlying medical condition or ongoing irritation of the airways. Common causes of chronic cough include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), postnasal drip syndrome, smoking-related lung diseases, environmental allergies, and certain medications.

Coughs can also be classified based on their characteristics:

1. Dry Cough: A dry cough does not produce mucus or phlegm and is often associated with irritants, allergies, viral infections, or early stages of respiratory conditions.
2. Productive Cough: A productive cough produces mucus or phlegm, which is expelled from the airways. It is commonly seen in respiratory infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, or chronic lung conditions.
3. Persistent Cough: A persistent cough is one that lingers for an extended period and may require medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment for Cough

Treatment for a cough depends on its underlying cause and characteristics. For acute coughs due to viral infections, rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications such as cough suppressants or expectorants may help alleviate symptoms. Chronic coughs often require medical evaluation to identify and address the underlying condition, which may include medications (such as bronchodilators, corticosteroids, or antibiotics), lifestyle modifications, or management of underlying diseases. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if a cough persists, worsens, or is associated with other concerning symptoms.

NOVA Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Associates is committed to providing excellent care in all aspects of Pulmonary Medicine and Sleep Disorders. With offices located in Lansdowne and Dulles/South Riding, we offer care for the entire Northern Virginia region, serving locations from Chantilly, Fairfax, Centreville, Manassas, Gainesville to Reston, Sterling, Leesburg, Ashburn, Brambleton, Purcellville and more.