Cough
Cough is a reflex action that helps clear the airways of mucus, irritants, or infections. It is commonly caused by common cold, flu, or allergies, but can also indicate serious lung or heart conditions.
🚨 Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Cough may be serious if you have:
- Coughing blood (hemoptysis).
- Severe shortness of breath.
- Chest pain with fever and cough.
- Cough lasting more than 3 weeks.
📞 Consult a Doctor
You should see a doctor if:
- Cough persists beyond 2–3 weeks.
- It disturbs sleep or daily activity.
- It is associated with wheezing.
- You have recurrent respiratory infections.
Common Symptoms & Causes
| Type of Cough | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Dry cough (no mucus) | Allergy or viral infection |
| Wet cough (with mucus) | Pneumonia or Bronchitis |
| Chronic cough | Asthma or COPD |
| Cough with heartburn | GERD (Acid reflux) |
| Cough with fever & chest pain | Severe lung infection |
Causes by Category
Common Cold: Viral infection causing throat irritation.
Influenza: Respiratory virus infection.
Pneumonia: Infection of lung tissue.
Asthma: Airway inflammation and narrowing.
COPD: Chronic lung disease causing airflow blockage.
Tuberculosis: Bacterial lung infection.
GERD: Acid reflux irritating the throat.
Smoking: Major cause of chronic cough.
Allergies: Trigger airway irritation.
Diagnostic Procedures
Chest X-Ray
Checks lungs for infection or inflammation.
Sputum Test
Analyzes mucus for bacteria or TB infection.
Spirometry
Measures lung function and airflow.
Allergy Test
Identifies triggers causing chronic cough.
