Causes of Coughing

Coughing is a vital function to clear some type of debris or matter from the airways in a forceful manner. It is a necessary phenomenon of the human body to expel material that may be blocking proper respiration. Coughing may occur when a substance has been inhaled or when phlegm needs to be ejected from the lungs. Chronic coughing is any cough that has lasted longer than four weeks. It should be evaluated by a medical professional. .

Respiratory Infections

Certain types of bacteria or viruses cause most upper respiratory infections. The common cold, bronchitis, pneumonia, and pertussis are some infections where coughing may occur. These infections tend to cause an excess production of mucus and phlegm after the lungs become inflamed. Coughing helps to expel the mucus and phlegm.

Allergies and Post-Nasal Drip

Allergies are very common, especially during the springtime when allergens like pollen and mold are more widespread. Coughing from allergies helps to get these unwanted substances out of the body along with mucus and other materials in the respiratory system. Allergic sinusitis or hayfever, which are inflammation of the nasal and sinus cavities can cause post-nasal drip from mucus falling into the back of the throat. This drip causes coughing to help rid the air passages of the mucus and infected material.

Smoking and Air Pollution

Cigarette smoking or exposure to air pollution or second-hand smoke may produce a hacking smoker's cough. Smoke and air pollution are toxicants that destroy little hairlike projections in the throat that help rid toxins and debris. Since the mechanism of ridding irritants and phlegm from the airways is destroyed, coughing is the only means to force it out.

Acid Reflux

Chronic coughing is sometimes associated with acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Coughing associated with GERD generally produces no mucus and is a dry cough in response to an irritated esophagus due to the back up of stomach acid in throat. GERD-associated coughs are usually dry and of the non-productive type.

Other Causes

Any condition that irritates the airways or obstruction in the airways may cause a cough. Some other conditions associated with coughing are: choking, asthma, cystic fibrosis, interstitial lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sarcoidosis, and spasmodic croup. ACE Inhibitors may also contribute to coughing.

Treatment

Common treatment is different for dry coughs than for coughs with high amounts of phlegm and mucus. Dry coughs may be treated with dextromethorphan, codeine or other antitussives that suppress the urge to cough. Phlegm producing coughs are usually treated with medications that loosen the mucus and help expel it from the lungs.