Cough is an instinctive reflex that the body initiates to remove any obstructions such as foreign particles or mucous that are present in the lungs and in the upper respiratory tract. Technically coughing is a symptom, rather than an actual illness, that may cause intense discomfort and annoyance.

Cough begins as a contraction in the chest cavity and proceeds as the body releases the irritants with a powerful blow of air, creating the peculiar ‘coughing’ sound. Coughing may be voluntary because an individual may choose to cough if there is irritation in the respiratory tract or food pipe.

Causes and Risk Factors

Cough can be broadly divided into two categories: Productive (chesty) and Non-productive (dry). Each type of cough can be triggered by several conditions.

Productive Cough: This type of cough is usually a result of some temporary disorder that is affecting the respiratory tract. It usually lasts for two to three weeks and produces phlegm. Here are a few conditions that cause productive cough:

	Viral diseases of the upper respiratory tract such as common cold, pneumonia, flu and whooping cough
	Tuberculosis
	Chronic lung disease such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
	Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) wherein the stomach acids rise to the esophagus and irritate the respiratory system
	Bronchitis
	Smoking or other tobacco use