Definition of Cough:

Coughing is an important way to keep your throat and airways clear. However, too much coughing may mean you have a disease or disorder.

Some coughs are dry. Others are considered productive. A productive cough is one that brings up mucus. Mucus is also called phlegm or sputum.

Coughs can be either acute or chronic:

• Acute coughs usually begin suddenly and are often due to a cold, flu, or sinus infection. They usually go away after 3 weeks.
• Subacute coughs last 3 to 8 weeks.
• Chronic coughs last longer than 3 weeks.

Common Causes:

Recent upper airway infections, such as the common cold and flu, can cause coughs. Other common causes include:

• ACE inhibitors (medications used to control blood pressure)
• Allergic rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nose or sinuses)
• Asthma
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysema or chronic bronchitis)
• Cigarette smoking
• Exposure to secondhand smoke
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Lung disease such as bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, or tumors
• Lung infections such as pneumonia or acute bronchitis
• Sinusitis leading to postnasal drip

If a child has a barking cough, see croup.