coughs

A cough is a reflex action that helps clear the airways of mucus, irritants, or foreign particles. It can be productive, producing phlegm or sputum, or nonproductive, a dry cough. Coughs are commonly described by duration: acute (<3 weeks), subacute (3–8 weeks), or chronic (more than 8 weeks). Most acute coughs are due to infections and resolve without specific treatment.

Common causes of acute cough include viral upper respiratory infections, acute bronchitis, or pneumonia. Chronic cough has a broader range of causes, including asthma, chronic bronchitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), postnasal drip from allergic rhinitis or sinusitis, and, in adults, medications such as ACE inhibitors. Environmental irritants, tobacco smoke, and occupational exposures also contribute.

Evaluation focuses on duration, associated symptoms, and risk factors. Red flags requiring prompt medical care include coughing up blood, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fever with symptoms lasting longer than a few days, unexplained weight loss, or a persistent cough in high-risk individuals. In children, persistent or night-time coughs warrant medical assessment. A clinician may perform a physical exam and, if indicated, chest imaging, allergy testing, or lung function testing.

Management emphasizes treating the underlying cause and relieving symptoms. Self-care includes fluids, humidified air, throat soothing measures, and avoiding irritants. Cough medicines may be used for short periods; dosing and age restrictions apply. Honey can help children over one year; codeine-containing products are generally not recommended for most patients. Antibiotics are not routinely used for viral coughs. Ongoing or recurrent coughs require medical review to identify treatable causes.