Cough Treatment Online

A cough is a common reflex action aimed at clearing the throat of mucus or irritants. Coughs can occur as part of a variety of conditions, including infections like the common cold, flu, and respiratory tract infections.

They can also be a symptom of chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and acid reflux. Sometimes, a cough is a temporary condition; other times, it can be persistent and require medical intervention.

Coughs serve as a vital defense mechanism for the body, helping to keep the throat and airways clear. However, when a cough becomes chronic or interferes with daily life, it may signify a more serious underlying health issue.

What Can Cause a Cough?

A cough is not just a simple reaction of the body, but a symptom that can be caused by numerous conditions, ranging from mild to serious.  Here is a look at the various conditions that can lead to a cough:

Respiratory tract infections

Respiratory infections are the most common cause of acute coughs. These include:

• Common cold and flu (Influenza): Viral infections that affect the upper respiratory tract.
• Pneumonia: Infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs.
• Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to your lungs.
• Whooping cough (Pertussis): A highly contagious respiratory tract infection.

Chronic respiratory conditions

Chronic conditions often lead to a persistent cough. These include:

• Asthma: Often causes a dry cough that worsens at night or in response to specific triggers.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, leading to a chronic productive cough.
• Bronchiectasis: Causes persistent cough due to abnormally widened airways in the lungs, leading to mucus build-up.

Allergies and sinus problems

Allergic reactions can also trigger coughing as the body tries to clear the breathing passages:

• Allergic rhinitis: Commonly known as hay fever, can cause sneezing, itching, and coughing.
• Sinusitis: Infection or inflammation of the sinus cavities can lead to a postnasal drip and cough.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

When stomach acid backs up into the throat, it can cause a persistent dry cough.

Environmental factors

Exposure to certain environmental factors can cause a temporary or chronic cough:

• Irritants: Such as smoke, dust, fumes, and chemical vapors.
• Pollution: Airborne pollutants can trigger coughing, especially in people with respiratory conditions.

Medications

Certain medications, especially ACE inhibitors used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions, can cause coughing as a side effect.

Other causes

A cough can also be indicative of more severe conditions such as:

• Heart failure: A less common cause, but coughing can be a symptom.
• Lung cancer: In rare cases, a chronic cough could be a sign of lung cancer.
• Tuberculosis: An infectious disease that severely affects the lungs.
• Aspiration: When food, drink, or saliva goes into the airways.

Cough Types

Coughs can be classified based on their duration and the characteristics of the cough:

• Acute cough
  • Duration: Lasts less than three weeks.
  • Common Causes: Often caused by viral infections such as colds, flu, or acute bronchitis.
• Subacute cough
  • Duration: Lasts between three to eight weeks.
  • Transition Phase: Typically follows an acute illness, like the lingering cough after a cold.
• Chronic cough
  • Duration: Lasts more than eight weeks.
  • Underlying Conditions: Often associated with conditions like asthma, allergies, chronic bronchitis, or GERD.
• Productive cough
  • Characteristics: Produces phlegm or mucus (sputum).
  • Indicative Conditions: This can indicate a bacterial infection or chronic lung condition.
• Dry cough
  • Characteristics: No sputum produced.
  • Typical causes: Often caused by viral infections, asthma, or reflux.

Cough Symptoms

The symptoms accompanying a cough can vary depending on the underlying cause but typically include:

• Chest discomfort or pain: Often present with persistent or severe coughing.
• Phlegm or mucus production: Indicates a productive cough; the color and consistency of the mucus can provide clues about the underlying condition.
• Wheezing: A high-pitched sound while breathing, often associated with asthma or bronchitis.
• Shortness of breath: This can occur if the cough is part of a broader respiratory issue.
• Hoarseness: Vocal changes due to irritation in the throat.
• Nocturnal cough: Coughing that primarily happens at night can be indicative of asthma, postnasal drip, or GERD.

How Is a Cough Treated?

Cough treatment varies based on the underlying cause:

• Medications: Antitussives for dry coughs and expectorants for productive coughs.
• Inhalers: Used for coughs caused by asthma or COPD.
• Antibiotics: Prescribed only if a bacterial infection is the cause.
• Home remedies: Such as honey, warm liquids, and humidifiers can relieve symptoms.
• Lifestyle changes: Avoiding irritants, quitting smoking, and managing allergies.

Cough Medications

Cough medications are tailored to treat different types of coughs and their underlying causes:

• Antitussives (cough suppressants): Such as dextromethorphan, used to suppress dry, irritating coughs.
• Expectorants: Help loosen mucus so it can be coughed up more easily, containing ingredients like guaifenesin.
• Decongestants: Used to relieve nasal congestion and associated coughing.
• Inhaled bronchodilators: Used for coughs associated with asthma or COPD to open the airways.
• Antibiotics: Prescribed only for coughs resulting from bacterial infections, not viral infections.

How Can DrHouse Help?

DrHouse is a leading telehealth app that connects patients with licensed online doctors around the clock. Available 24/7, it provides a convenient platform for individuals seeking immediate medical advice and treatment for coughs and other health concerns. With a user-friendly interface, patients can schedule appointments, receive diagnoses, and obtain prescriptions from the comfort of their homes.

DrHouse eliminates the need for lengthy waits in clinics, ensuring that expert medical care is always just a click away.