Kohkustamist

Kohkustamist, also known as coughing, is a sudden and forceful expulsion of air from the lungs. It is a reflex action that helps to clear the airways of irritants, mucus, or foreign particles. This involuntary reflex is triggered by stimulation of the cough receptors, which are located in the respiratory tract. When these receptors are activated, a signal is sent to the brain, which then initiates the complex sequence of muscle contractions that results in a cough.

The process of coughing involves several stages. First, the glottis, the opening between the vocal cords, closes tightly. Then, the abdominal and intercostal muscles contract, building up pressure within the lungs. Finally, the glottis opens suddenly, and the air is rapidly expelled, carrying with it any irritants or excess secretions. This powerful expulsion can be quite loud and may be accompanied by a distinctive sound.

Coughing can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from minor irritations to more serious medical conditions. Common causes include the common cold, influenza, allergies, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and exposure to smoke or other pollutants. The duration and intensity of a cough can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause. A persistent or severe cough, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate course of treatment.