What’s in a Cough?

Generally speaking, coughing is perfectly normal. A cough can help to keep your throat clear from phlegm and other irritants. However, sustained coughing can also be symptomatic of a number of conditions.

For example, a short-term bout of coughing that lasts two to three weeks — starting quickly and slowly tapering off — can point to a cold, flu, or sinus infection.

Bouts of coughing that last a longer time (three weeks or more) might signify an allergy or another underlying disorder. 

What Causes Coughing?

Coughing can signify a cold, which are caused by viral infections in the respiratory tract. Other symptoms of a cold include nasal congestion and/or a runny nose.

Allergies have similar symptoms, but are caused by allergens that irritate the immune system. When faced with an allergen such as pollen, the immune system creates chemicals called histamines to react to them.

If you have a cough that arises immediately in a certain environment or season, you may have an allergy. 

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Respiratory tract infections involve body aches and fever, whereas allergies do not. You should see a doctor if you develop a fever or experience chills, as these symptoms can be a sign of a serious lung infection like bronchitis. You should also seek medical attention if your cough is violent or you produce thick, bad-smelling, off-colored phlegm.

You can treat coughs due to colds, allergies, and sinus infections with a number of over-the-counter medicines. So pay a visit to your nearest GP clinic for the treatment.



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