What causes a cough? What to do if you have a cough?

 

Coughing is a natural reaction of the body to the release of that foreign object or debris from the lungs when a foreign object or debris enters the throat or trachea. When external debris or an object enters the lungs, it stimulates the nerves. Coughing is caused by these nerves sending information to the brain, which in turn directs the muscles in the chest and abdomen, which in turn push the air out of the lungs, causing coughing. Coughing can have many causes. Sometimes coughing is not a concern at all. However, if the cough lasts for weeks, you should see your doctor to see if you have any respiratory problems. Cough is medically divided into two main types: short-term cough and chronic cough. Short-term coughing lasts less than 3 weeks. Chronic cough Cough lasts for 3 weeks or more. Causes of short-term cough include: 

• Cold Seasonal flu 

• Inhalation of irritating substances into the respiratory tract (eg inhalation of smoke). Pneumonia And whooping cough. Causes of chronic cough include: Respiratory allergies 

• Asthma Chronic bronchitis in smokers 

• Tuberculosis of the lungs Reversal of nasal secretions into the throat And lung cancer. Some medications can also cause coughing. If you have a cough that has colored saliva (for example, yellow or red saliva), you should see a doctor immediately. If necessary, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. If you have a cough or shortness of breath or a fever (especially if the fever is more than 100 ° F) or you are very tired, you should see a doctor. Usually, if the cough is severe, no cough medicine is needed. 

 

Coughing naturally clears debris from the outside of the lungs. However, if the cough is severe and unbearable, you can take cough medicine. It can also be used to relieve a sore throat. If you have saliva, taking a laxative can help relieve the cough. Drinking a teaspoon of honey can also help relieve a cough. (Caution: Do not give honey to infants under one year of age). Drink warm water. Protect yourself from secondhand smoke. If possible, keep your room humidified by adding a vaporizer to reduce coughing.