Cough - Causes, Conditions & When to See a Doctor
A cough is a reflex action to clear the airways of mucus, irritants, and foreign particles. It can be acute (lasting less than 3 weeks) or chronic (lasting more than 8 weeks).
Overview
Cough is one of the most common reasons for doctor visits. While usually caused by viral infections, a persistent cough can indicate various conditions from asthma to tuberculosis and should be evaluated if it lasts more than 2-3 weeks.
Conditions That Cause Cough
Cough can be associated with several medical conditions. Understanding the underlying cause is important for proper treatment.
Tuberculosis
Common causeTuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that mainly affects the lungs but can affect other parts of the body.
Pneumonia
Common causePneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough with phlegm, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.
GERD
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and irritation.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, causing nasal congestion, facial pain, and thick nasal discharge.
Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is an allergic response causing sneezing, congestion, itchy nose, and runny nose when you breathe in allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander.
When to See a Doctor for Cough
See a doctor if cough persists for more than 3 weeks, produces blood or thick discolored mucus, is accompanied by fever, shortness of breath, wheezing, or unexplained weight loss. Seek immediate care for difficulty breathing.
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Related Symptoms
People experiencing cough may also notice these symptoms:
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.