There are some symptoms and health conditions that we overlook. Most often, these are flu and cold conditions that we treat with home remedies or drink medicines we prescribe ourselves.
However, in some cases, when there is a viral or bacterial infection, the wrong treatment can worsen our health. Some overlooked symptoms are coughing, a sore throat, and a runny nose, and making our condition more severe leads to acute symptoms.
In this regard, cough is a common symptom that should not be ignored. It can occur for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it is mild and passes by itself, but in others, it is essential to treat it so that it does not lead to severe complications.
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What Is A Cough?
Coughing is a natural reflex action that helps our bodies clear the respiratory system of mucus, irritants, and foreign particles. It is one of the most common respiratory symptoms. Coughs can also be defined as the sudden and forceful expulsion of air from the lungs. It helps to get rid of unwanted substances from the respiratory system.
What Causes Coughing?
As we said, respiratory disease is one of the most common causes of coughing. However, it is not the only factor leading to this unpleasant symptom.
The reasons for coughing can be many, and the most common among them include the following conditions:
- Infections – it includes all types of respiratory illnesses such as colds, flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia. These infections cause inflammation of the respiratory system, making it difficult to breathe and causing a cough;
- Asthma – it is a chronic respiratory disease that causes the respiratory system to become inflamed, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma symptoms include coughing;
- Allergies – nowadays, more people complain of allergies to pollen, dust, pet dander, and other allergens, which cause coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose;
- Smoking – it can cause coughing and various respiratory problems such as chronic bronchitis.
Types Of Cough
From a medical point of view, cough can be divided into several main types according to its specifics and what causes it.
The main three types of cough are as follows:
- Dry cough – this type of cough does not produce mucus or phlegm. Most allergies, environmental irritants, and viral infections cause it;
- Productive cough – this type of cough produces phlegm or mucus. Most respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, cause it;
- Chronic cough – when it lasts for more than 8 weeks, it becomes chronic. Many factors cause it, including asthma, allergies, smoking, etc.
How To Treat A Cough?
It is of the utmost importance to take timely measures, no matter what kind of cough you have. It can lead to severe complications if not treated or the proper medical treatment is not chosen.
First, it is essential to visit a doctor who will determine the type of cough, its cause and prescribe a treatment. It typically includes medicines such as lozenges and cough syrup.
Many herbs, homoeopathic remedies, and other natural products also help treat coughs.
Here are some more tips to reduce cough symptoms:
- Stay hydrated – it is recommended to drink plenty of water;
- Use a humidifier and air purifier – on the one hand, the humidifier will moisten the air. On the other hand, the air purifier cleans the air from dust particles, bacteria, and viruses that cause cough;
- Clean your home regularly – dust is one of the common causes of throat irritation and coughing, so it is essential to keep your home clean. Along with that, we recommend regularly ventilating your home.
In conclusion, cough is a common symptom, not a cause for concern. Understanding the different types of coughs and their reasons will help with effective treatment and a quick recovery. Staying hydrated, avoiding irritants, and seeking medical attention when necessary can relieve your cough and improve your overall respiratory health.