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What can cause a cough?

Coughing can be a response to breathing in dust or fumes that irritate the nerve endings in the airways. It can also be a symptom of a medical problem, such as a lung infection caused by bacteria or viruses, or a long-term lung disease, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is a cough?

Coughing is your body's way of getting rid of any foreign material or mucus in your lungs.

How is a cough treated?

Coughs are usually treated by identifying and treating the underlying cause of the cough. Many different medications are also available to reduce the severity of the cough, or break down the mucus and phlegm that is then easier to dislodge from the lungs.

How can I find out what is causing my cough?

To determine the cause of your cough, a doctor will conduct a physical examination and evaluate your symptoms. If a lung infection is suspected, your doctor may collect a sample of mucus, phlegm or blood, which can then be tested for presence of …

What does it mean if I cough up blood?

Coughing up blood may be a sign of a serious medical condition. It is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, covers conditions affecting the lungs. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are the two main conditions, usually caused by smoking. Medications and lifestyle changes can help slow the progression of the disease.…
Diseases & conditions

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection, usually caused by bacteria or viruses, often after a cold or flu. It causes air sacs in the lung to fill with fluid and mucus, affecting breathing. Pneumonia can be more serious in children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.…
Diseases & conditions

The flu (influenza)

The flu, or influenza, is a common viral infection, which causes fevers, headache, coughing and muscle aches. It is different to the common cold, which usually has relatively milder symptoms. Rarely, complications can occur with the elderly, children and people with weakened immune systems.…
Diseases & conditions

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a common condition that occurs when the lungs become inflamed. It causes coughing and difficult breathing. Acute bronchitis refers to the short-term type, and may occur in the aftermath of cold or flu. While the cough may be severe, it typically lasts for only a few weeks.…
Diseases & conditions

Asthma

Asthma is a common respiratory condition where irritants trigger the airways to become inflamed and narrowed, which makes breathing difficult. During attacks, individuals may notice wheezing, coughing, tightness in the chest and/or shortness of breath. It is important to know how to correctly manage and prevent asthma attacks.…
Diseases & conditions

Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a lung disease in which the airways (bronchi) become damaged and scarred by repeated lung infections. It can cause a build-up of mucus in the airways, leading to persistent coughing and difficulty breathing.…

About this article

Author: Dr Joanne Van der Velden PhD, BSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Votes: 736 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

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