Coughing is the body's natural reflex to clear the respiratory tract of foreign bodies, mucus, and irritants. Prolonged coughing can be caused by a variety of factors. Understanding the cause can make it easier to manage and treat the cough.

Early detection can also prevent the severity of symptoms, shorten the duration of illness, and reduce the risk of complications.

What causes a cough?

Viruses

The most common cause of respiratory tract infections resulting in acute coughing is viruses. Colds, flu, bronchitis, and COVID-19 can all trigger the cough reflex because the body wants to expel mucus and foreign bodies from the respiratory tract.

Treatment for coughing caused by viral infections typically focuses on relieving symptoms and allowing the body to recover so it can fight the infection. It is recommended to avoid strenuous activities, get enough sleep, and drink plenty of water to keep the body hydrated and soften mucus in the respiratory tract.

Allergies and asthma

Coughing due to allergies is typically caused by the body's allergic reaction to specific allergens, such as pollen, pet dander, dust, dust mites, mold, and food allergens. To treat allergic cough symptoms, avoid allergens and use medications like antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids.

Meanwhile, asthmatic coughs can be triggered by allergens or strenuous activities like exercise. Asthmatic coughs typically cause more symptoms at night, which can interfere with sleep.

Irritants

Even without allergies, environmental irritants such as cold air, cigarette smoke, air pollution, strong odors, or chemical exposure can cause coughing. This type of cough, known as a reactive cough, can be treated by avoiding exposure to the irritant. When working with chemicals, it's best to protect the respiratory tract by wearing a mask.

Post-nasal drip

A post-nasal drip occurs when excess mucus from the nose drains into the back of the throat. This can result from allergies, sinusitis, upper respiratory tract infections, or seasonal weather changes. The mucus flowing down the throat can stimulate the cough reflex, which can progress to a chronic cough if left untreated.

Acid reflux

Acid reflux can commonly cause coughing. When stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, it irritates the esophagus and throat, leading to coughing. Coughing from acid reflux usually occurs after eating or while lying down, as the body position allows stomach acid to rise up the esophagus more quickly. Dietary changes, weight loss, not lying down after meals, quitting smoking, and taking acid reflux medications can help reduce and prevent coughing caused by acid reflux. 

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD)

You can use over-the-counter cough drops to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up. Additionally, avoid allergens and activities that may trigger coughing. If symptoms worsen or do not improve despite medication, see a doctor immediately.

You can use over-the-counter cough drops to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up. Additionally, avoid allergens and activities that may trigger coughing. If symptoms worsen or do not improve despite medication, see a doctor immediately.

You can use over-the-counter cough drops to thin the mucus and make it easier to cough it up. Also, avoid allergens and activities that may cause coughing. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve despite taking medication, see a doctor immediately.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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