Productive cough

Productive Cough

A productive cough is a type of cough that produces phlegm or sputum from the lungs. It is distinct from a non-productive cough, or dry cough, which does not produce phlegm or mucus.

Causes

Productive coughs can be caused by a number of conditions, primarily those affecting the respiratory system. These include:

• Common cold
• Influenza
• Pneumonia
• COPD
• Bronchitis
• Asthma
• Cystic fibrosis

Symptoms

In addition to the production of phlegm or mucus, symptoms of a productive cough may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest pain
• Fever
• Fatigue

Treatment

Treatment for a productive cough depends on its cause. It may include:

• Antibiotics, if the cough is caused by a bacterial infection
• Cough suppressants, to help control the cough
• Expectorants, to help loosen and expel mucus from the lungs
• Inhalers, for conditions such as asthma or COPD

See also

• Cough medicine
• Cough suppressant
• Expectorant
• Mucus