Why we cough
Coughing is a reflex that keeps your throat and airways clear. It can be annoying, but it helps your body heal or protect itself.
Acute or chronic?
| Type | How long | Usual causes |
|---|---|---|
| Acute | starts suddenly, usually lasts no more than 2 to 3 weeks | a cold, the flu, or acute bronchitis |
| Chronic | lasts longer than 2 to 3 weeks | see below |
Causes of a chronic cough include:
- chronic bronchitis;
- asthma;
- allergies;
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease);
- GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease);
- smoking;
- throat disorders, such as croup in young children;
- some medicines.
What helps
- Water can ease a cough — drink it, or add it to the air with a steamy shower or a vaporizer.
- With a cold or the flu, antihistamines may work better than non-prescription cough medicines.
Children
- Under four: children should not be given cough medicine.
- Over four: use caution and read labels carefully.
Sources
Based on the MedlinePlus health topic "Cough," National Library of Medicine; a work of the United States government in the public domain.
ライセンス： CC0 1.0（パブリックドメイン） · 出典 medlineplus.gov
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