INFORMATION ON COUGHING:-

Coughing is an important process to keep your throat and airways clear. However, excessive coughing may mean you are suffering from some diseases or have some disorder.

Some coughs are dry, while others are considered productive. A productive cough is one that brings up mucus.

Coughs can be either acute or chronic:-

Acute coughs usually develop suddenly. They are often develop due to a cold, flu, or sinus infection. They usually go away after 2 to 3 weeks.
Chronic coughs last longer than 2 to 3 weeks.

CAUSES OF COUGHING:-

The events which are responsible for the development of coughs include:-

1. Allergies and asthma
2. Lung infections such as pneumonia or acute bronchitis
3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysema or chronic bronchitis)
4. Sinusitis leading to postnasal drip
5. Lung disease such as bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, or tumors
6. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
7. Cigarette smoking
8. Exposure to secondhand smoke
9. Exposure to air pollutants
10. ACE inhibitors

TREATMENT OF COUGHING:-

Here are some tips to help ease your cough:

HOME TREATMENT:-

1. Cough lozenges or hard candy can help dry, tickling coughs. These should never be given to a child under 3 years old because they may cause choking.
2. A vaporizer or steamy shower may help a dry cough by increasing the humidity in the air.
3. Drink extra fluids to help thin the secretions in your throat and make them easier to cough up.

CLINICAL PROCEDURE:-

1. Guaifenesin (like Robitussin) can help you bring up mucus. Drink lots of fluids if you take this medicine.
2. Decongestants such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can be used to clear a runny nose and postnasal drip. These should not be used if you have high blood pressure or for a child under 6 years old, unless prescribed by your doctor.