Cough

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(Redirected from Nocturnal cough)

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Cough represents a critical reflex action aimed at maintaining clear airways, vital for optimal respiratory function. It becomes a symptom of concern when it is chronic or when it suggests an underlying disease or disorder.

Coughing icon

Definition and Description[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 2.0

A cough can be classified as either dry or productive. A productive cough leads to the expulsion of mucus, also known as phlegm or sputum. On the other hand, a dry cough does not produce mucus.

Furthermore, coughs can be categorized into acute or chronic based on their duration. Acute coughs, commonly resulting from a cold, flu, or sinus infection, are sudden in onset and typically resolve within 2 to 3 weeks. Chronic coughs persist for more than 2 to 3 weeks and may signal a more serious condition.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Several factors can trigger a cough, including:

Self-Care and Management[edit | edit source]

Several home remedies can alleviate a cough:

  • Cough lozenges or hard candy may help dry, tickling coughs. However, these should not be given to a child under 3 years old due to the risk of choking.
  • A vaporizer or a steamy shower may increase air humidity and help soothe a dry cough.
  • Drinking extra fluids can thin throat secretions, making them easier to cough up.
  • Over-the-counter medications, such as guaifenesin and decongestants, can assist in mucus expulsion and clearing postnasal drip, respectively.
  • Despite its discomfort, a cough is often a beneficial response aiding the body's healing process. Therefore, using cough suppressants may not always be recommended. Patients should consult a healthcare provider before starting any over-the-counter cough medicine. Furthermore, patients should not expect antibiotics for viral infections, as they are ineffective against viruses and will not alleviate a cough due to allergies.

When to Seek Medical Attention[edit | edit source]

Patients should immediately seek medical care if they experience:

  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Hives or a swollen face or throat with difficulty swallowing
  • Violent, sudden-onset cough
  • Cough that produces blood
  • Fever, which may suggest a bacterial infection
  • Thick, foul-smelling, yellowish-green phlegm, another possible sign of a bacterial infection

Symptoms suggestive of congestive heart failure, such as a history of heart disease, leg swelling, or a cough that worsens upon lying down

  • Exposure to someone with tuberculosis
  • Unintentional weight loss or night sweats
  • Cough persisting for longer than 10-14 days
  • Cough in an infant less than 3 months old

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnostic investigations can include a physical examination, focusing on the ears, nose, throat, and chest, and may include further diagnostic tests such as:

  • Bronchoscopy
  • Lung scan
  • Pulmonary function tests
  • Sputum analysis, if the cough produces sputum
  • Chest X-ray

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures include avoiding smoke and exposure to allergens. For seasonal allergies, individuals should try to stay indoors on high-allergen days, and those with year-round allergies should consider using dust mite covers, air purifiers, and avoiding pets and other known triggers.

References[edit | edit source]

Irwin RS, Madison JM. The diagnosis and treatment of cough. New England Journal of Medicine. 2000 Dec 7;343(23):1715-21. Braman SS. Chronic cough due to acute bronchitis: ACCP evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Chest. 2006 Jan 1;129(1):95S-103S. Pratter MR. Chronic upper airway cough syndrome secondary to rhinosinus diseases (previously referred to as postnasal drip syndrome): ACCP evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Chest. 2006 Jan 1;129(1):63S-71S.

External links[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD