Cough: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Risk factors, and Effective Treatments

• Productive Cough: This type of cough is most familiar as a "wet" or "chesty" cough. It is characterized by the production and expulsion of mucus or phlegm from the lungs or airways. Productive coughs are often associated with respiratory infections, for instances, the common cold, bronchitis, or pneumonia. The appearance of mucus indicates that the body is trying to clear the airways of excess secretions or pathogens.
• Non-Productive Cough: Normally, this type of cough is referred to as a "dry" or "tickly" cough, a non-productive cough does not produce any mucus or phlegm. It is usually caused by irritation or inflammation of the upper airways, throat, or lungs. The most common causes of non-productive cough include allergies, postnasal drip, acid reflux, or exposure to irritants like smoke or dust. Non-productive coughs can be chronic and may cause discomfort or throat irritation.
• Chronic Cough: A chronic cough is one that lasts for an extended period, typically more than eight weeks in adults or four weeks in children. It can be caused by various factors, including underlying conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or postnasal drip. Chronic coughs often require medical evaluation and treatment to address the underlying cause.
• Barky Cough: A barky cough is a distinctive, harsh cough that resembles the sound of a seal or dog barking. It is commonly associated with croup, a viral infection that affects the upper airways, primarily in young children. Croup can cause swelling and narrowing of the airways, leading to the characteristic barking cough, hoarseness, and difficulty breathing.
• Whooping Cough: This cough is known as pertussis, otherwise, whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits followed by a "whooping" sound when taking a breath. Whooping cough can be particularly severe in infants and young children and requires medical attention.
• Allergic Cough: An allergic cough is triggered by exposure to allergens, for examples, pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods. It is frequently accompanied by other allergy symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, and nasal congestion. Managing the underlying allergy through avoidance of triggers or appropriate allergy medication can help alleviate the cough.

• Coughing: Coughing is the main symptom which usually revealed by the forceful expulsion of air from the lungs. It can range from mild and occasional to persistent and severe.
• Productive Cough: A productive cough is when mucus or phlegm is coughed up or expelled from the lungs. The color, consistency, and amount of the sputum can vary depending on the underlying cause.
• Dry Cough: A dry or non-productive cough does not produce any mucus or phlegm. It may be irritating and persistent as well as often accompanied by a tickling or scratching sensation in the throat.
• Sore Throat: A cough can cause throat irritation and soreness, resulting in discomfort or pain while swallowing or speaking.
• Chest Discomfort: Coughing can lead to chest discomfort or pain, which can range from mild to severe. It may feel like a pressure or tightness in the chest.
• Wheezing: Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs during breathing. It can accompany a cough and may indicate narrowing or obstruction of the airways, such as in asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Shortness of Breath: In some cases, a persistent cough can be accompanied by difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion or at rest.
• Fatigue: Frequent or severe coughing can be exhausting and may lead to fatigue or decreased energy levels.
• Other Symptoms: Depending on the underlying cause, a cough may be accompanied by additional symptoms, such as, fever, nasal congestion, runny nose, headache, body aches, chest congestion, or postnasal drip.

• Difficulty Breathing: If the cough is accompanied by severe difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, wheezing, or gasping for air, it may indicate a serious respiratory problem, for examples, a severe asthma attack, pulmonary embolism, or a collapsed lung.
• Chest Pain: Intense chest pain, especially if it is sudden or radiates to the arm, neck, or jaw, may be a sign of a heart attack. In some cases, a persistent cough can be a symptom of a heart-related issue.
• Coughing Up Blood: Coughing up blood (hemoptysis) is a potentially serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention. It can indicate various conditions, including severe infections, lung cancer, or pulmonary embolism.
• Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: If the cough is associated with a rapid or irregular heartbeat, lightheadedness, fainting, or a feeling of impending doom, it may suggest a cardiac arrhythmia or another serious cardiovascular condition.
• Blue Lips or Face: Bluish discoloration of the lips, face, or extremities (cyanosis) indicates a lack of oxygen in the blood and may be a sign of a severe respiratory or circulatory problem.
• Severe Weakness or Fatigue: If the cough is accompanied by extreme weakness, dizziness, confusion, or a sudden loss of consciousness, it could be a sign of a medical emergency, for instances, a severe infection, anaphylaxis, or a neurological event like a stroke.
• Choking or Inability to Breathe: If you are unable to speak, breathe, or cough due to an object lodged in the airway, immediate action is required. Perform the Heimlich maneuver or seek immediate help if someone else is choking.

• Respiratory Infections: The most frequent cause of acute cough is respiratory infections, such as, the common cold, influenza (flu), bronchitis, pneumonia, or sinusitis. These infections can lead to inflammation and irritation of the airways, resulting in a cough.
• Allergies: Allergic reactions to substances like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods can cause coughing. This type of cough is often done by other allergy symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, or itchy eyes.
• Postnasal Drip: Excessive mucus dripping down the back of the throat from the nasal passages (postnasal drip) can trigger a cough. It can be caused by allergies, sinus infections, or even non-allergic factors like cold air or spicy foods.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Acid reflux, where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, can cause a chronic cough. The acid irritates the throat and triggers the cough reflex.
• Asthma: Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. Coughing is a common symptom of asthma and may be triggered by allergens, exercise, cold air, or respiratory infections.
• Medications: Some medications, particularly those used to manage high blood pressure (ACE inhibitors), can cause a persistent cough as a side effect.
• Irritants: Exposure to irritants like smoke, pollutants, chemicals, or strong odors can irritate the airways and lead to coughing.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): COPD, which includes conditions like chronic bronchitis and emphysema, can cause a chronic cough due to ongoing lung damage and inflammation.
• Pertussis (Whooping Cough): Pertussis is a bacterial infection that causes severe coughing fits, often accompanied by a "whooping" sound when breathing in. It is highly contagious and can be specially severe in infants and young children.
• Other Factors: Other factors that can contribute to cough include smoking, environmental pollution, lung cancer, heart failure, or certain lung diseases.

• Smoking: Smoking tobacco or exposure to secondhand smoke significantly increases the risk of developing a chronic cough. Smoking irritates the airways, damages lung tissue, and weakens the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to respiratory infections.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental pollutants, for examples, air pollution, dust, chemicals, or allergens, can contribute to the development of cough. Occupational exposures to irritants or hazardous substances include certain chemicals or fumes, can also accelerate the risk of coughing.
• Respiratory Infections: The risk of coughing increases during periods of higher respiratory infection prevalence, such as flu seasons or outbreaks of common cold viruses. Close contact with individuals who have respiratory infections, particularly family members or coworkers, can also raise the risk.
• Allergies: People with allergies like allergic rhinitis or hay fever, are more prone to coughing. Additionally, exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods can trigger an allergic reaction which finally lead to cough symptoms.
• Asthma: Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway inflammation and increased sensitivity to certain triggers. Individuals with asthma are at a higher risk of developing cough as a symptom of their condition. Some factors such as allergens, exercise, cold air, or respiratory infections can trigger coughing in people with asthma.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Chronic cough can be a symptom of GERD, and individuals with this condition are at an increased risk of experiencing coughing episodes.
• Age: Infants and young children are more susceptible to respiratory infections and often develop coughs due to their developing immune systems. Elderly individuals may also have an increased risk of developing coughs due to age-related changes in the respiratory system and weakened immune function.
• Weakened Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems, specifically those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressive medications, have a higher risk of developing coughs as their bodies may have a reduced ability to fight off respiratory infections.
• Chronic Lung Conditions: People with chronic lung conditions like chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or cystic fibrosis have an increased risk of coughing due to ongoing inflammation and damage to the lungs.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors used to manage high blood pressure, can cause a persistent cough as a side effect in some individuals.

• Medical History: Your healthcare provider will ask questions about your cough, such as its duration, frequency, characteristics (productive or non-productive), associated symptoms, and any triggers or factors that worsen or relieve the cough. They will also inquire about your medical history, including any underlying conditions, allergies, medications, or recent respiratory infections.
• Physical Examination: A physical examination allows the healthcare provider to assess your general health and identify any physical signs that may provide clues to the cause of the cough. They may listen to your lungs with a stethoscope, examine your throat, and check for other respiratory symptoms.
• Diagnostic Tests: Depending on the suspected cause of the cough, your healthcare provider may order additional tests, which can include:

1. Chest X-ray: An X-ray image of your chest can help detect abnormalities in the lungs or airways.
2. Pulmonary Function Tests: These tests measure lung function and can help evaluate for conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
3. Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected, skin tests or blood tests may be done to identify specific allergens triggering the cough.
4. Sputum Culture: If you have a productive cough with discolored or purulent sputum, a sample may be collected and sent to a lab for analysis to identify any bacterial infection.
5. Spirometry: This test assesses lung function by measuring how much air you can inhale and exhale and how quickly you can exhale.
6. Bronchoscopy: In some cases, a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end (bronchoscope) may be inserted through the nose or mouth to visualize the airways and collect samples for further evaluation.

• Referral to Specialists: If the cause of the cough is unclear or requires further evaluation, your healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist, such as a pulmonologist (lung specialist), allergist, or gastroenterologist, depending on the suspected underlying condition.

• Treat the Underlying Cause: If your cough is due to an underlying condition such as a respiratory infection, allergies, asthma, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), treating the underlying cause can often help alleviate the cough. This may involve taking prescribed medications, particularly like antibiotics for bacterial infections, antihistamines for allergies, bronchodilators for asthma, or acid-suppressing drugs for GERD.
• Cough Suppressants: Cough suppressants can help temporarily relieve coughing and allow you to rest. For this purpose, some over-the-counter cough medicines may contain ingredients such as butamirate citrate, dextromethorphan or codeine, which can help suppress the cough reflex. 
• Expectorants: Expectorants contain Guaifenesin, Ambroxol HCL or Diphenhydramine HCL can help loosen and thin mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear from the airways. These medications can be helpful for productive coughs.
• Honey: Honey has soothing properties and can help relieve cough symptoms. You can try consuming honey directly or mix it with warm water or herbal tea. Please note that honey should not be given to children under the age of one due to the risk of infant botulism.
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep your throat moist and reduce throat irritation. Warm liquids like herbal teas, warm water with lemon and honey, or chicken soup can be particularly soothing for a cough.
• Humidifier or Steam: Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier or by inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can help soothe a dry cough and ease congestion. However, be cautious when using steam to avoid burns.
• Cough Drops or Lozenges: Sucking on cough drops or lozenges can help soothe an irritated throat and temporarily suppress the urge to cough. For these purposes, look for products that contain ingredients like menthol, eucalyptus, or honey.
• Avoid Irritants: Try to avoid exposure to smoke, strong odors, and other irritants that can trigger or worsen your cough. This includes both environmental factors and personal habits like smoking or vaping.
• Rest and Self-Care: Getting plenty of rest allows your body to recover and heal. Taking care of yourself by maintaining good hygiene, staying warm, and avoiding excessive physical exertion can also support your recovery from a cough.

• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after being in public spaces. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 70% alcohol content.
• Cover Your Mouth and Nose: When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow (not your hands) to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets. Dispose of used tissues properly and wash your hands afterward.
• Avoid Close Contact: Minimize close contact with people who have respiratory infections, such as the common cold or flu. According to the different research experts, maintain a distance of at least 1 meter (3 feet) from individuals who are coughing or sneezing.
• Wear a Mask: Follow the recommendations and guidelines provided by health authorities regarding wearing masks in public spaces or when close contact with others is unavoidable. Masks can help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets and protect both the wearer and those around them.
• Stay Home When Sick: If you are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as a cough, fever, or sore throat, it's important to stay home and avoid close contact with others to prevent the spread of illness.
• Keep Surfaces Clean: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, for instances doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and electronic devices. Use household disinfectants or wipes according to the instructions on the product label.
• Practice Respiratory Etiquette: Encourage others to follow proper respiratory etiquette by covering their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing. Politely remind those around you to practice good hygiene and respect personal space.
• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle can help strengthen your immune system and reduce the risk of respiratory infections. Give more focus on some points like get adequate sleep, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, stay physically active, and manage stress levels.
• Vaccinations: Stay up to date with recommended vaccinations, such as the influenza vaccine. Vaccinations can help protect against specific respiratory infections and reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick.
• Avoid Smoking and Secondhand Smoke: Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke can irritate the airways and make you more susceptible to respiratory infections and coughing. If you smoke, consider quitting, and avoid exposure to smoke from others.

What are the special recommendations for children cough?

• Consult a Pediatrician: If your child has a persistent or severe cough, it is important to consult a pediatrician. They can assess your child's condition, identify the underlying cause of the cough, and provide appropriate guidance and treatment options.
• Hydration: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids, such as water, to stay hydrated. This helps keep the airways moist and can help alleviate throat irritation.
• Honey for Cough (Over One Year Old): For children over the age of one, you can offer a small amount of honey as a natural cough remedy. Honey can help soothe the throat and reduce coughing. However, never give honey to infants under one year of age due to the risk of infant botulism.
• Use a Humidifier: Running a cool-mist humidifier in your child's room can add moisture to the air and help alleviate coughing caused by dry air. Ensure proper cleaning and maintenance of the humidifier to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.
• Saline Nasal Drops: For infants or young children with a stuffy or congested nose, saline nasal drops can help loosen mucus and improve breathing. Follow the instructions provided by the pediatrician or pharmacist.
• Avoid Irritants: Keep your child away from smoke, strong perfumes, and other environmental irritants that can trigger or worsen a cough. Ensure a clean and dust-free environment.
• Rest: Ensure your child gets plenty of rest to aid in their recovery. Adequate sleep and rest help the body heal and boost the immune system.
• Elevate the Head: When your child is sleeping or resting, elevate their head slightly by using an extra pillow or propping up the mattress. This can help ease postnasal drip and reduce coughing at night.
• Avoid Over-the-Counter Medications: Over-the-counter cough and cold medications are not recommended for children under certain ages, as they can have potentially harmful side effects. Consult your pediatrician before giving any medications to your child.
• Follow Vaccination Schedule: Ensure your child is up-to-date with their vaccinations, including those for respiratory infections like influenza (flu). Vaccinations can help prevent certain illnesses and reduce the severity of others.