Kaszel
Objawy

Kaszel jest odruchem obronnym służącym oczyszczaniu dróg oddechowych z wydzieliny, ciał obcych i substancji drażniących. Wyróżnia się kaszel ostry (<3 tygodni), podostry (3-8 tygodni) oraz przewlekły (>8 tygodni u dorosłych, >4 tygodnie u dzieci). Kaszel może być produktywny (z odkrztuszaniem plwociny) lub nieproduktywny (suchy). Szczególną formą jest kaszel krztuścowy, charakteryzujący się napadami i charakterystycznym „pianiem” przy wdechu. Kaszel poinfekcyjny może utrzymywać się do 3-8 tygodni po infekcji. Towarzyszą mu objawy takie jak katar, spływanie wydzieliny po tylnej ścianie gardła, ból gardła, chrypka, duszność czy w rzadkich przypadkach odkrztuszanie krwi. Przewlekły kaszel może powodować powikłania, m.in. zaburzenia snu, bóle głowy, wymioty, nietrzymanie moczu, złamania żeber czy omdlenia.

Kaszel: Definicja i klasyfikacja

Kaszel jest naturalnym odruchem obronnym organizmu, który pomaga w oczyszczaniu górnych (gardło) i dolnych (płuca) dróg oddechowych z drażniących substancji, wydzielin i ciał obcych. Jest to ważny mechanizm ochronny, który wspomaga proces zdrowienia i chroni organizm przed infekcjami 12. Kaszel jest najczęstszym objawem zgłaszanym w gabinetach lekarzy podstawowej opieki zdrowotnej 3.

W zależności od czasu trwania, kaszel można sklasyfikować jako:

  • Kaszel ostry – pojawia się nagle i trwa krócej niż 3 tygodnie 13
  • Kaszel podostry – utrzymuje się 3-8 tygodni, często pozostaje po przebytej infekcji 13
  • Kaszel przewlekły – trwa dłużej niż 8 tygodni u dorosłych lub 4 tygodnie u dzieci 145
  • Kaszel oporny na leczenie – to przewlekły kaszel, który nie reaguje na standardowe leczenie 1

Ze względu na charakter kaszlu rozróżniamy:

  • Kaszel produktywny (mokry) – prowadzi do odkrztuszania plwociny lub śluzu 16
  • Kaszel nieproduktywny (suchy) – nie prowadzi do odkrztuszania wydzieliny 16

Szczególnym rodzajem kaszlu jest kaszel krztuścowy (kokluszowy), występujący w przebiegu krztuśca, charakteryzujący się charakterystycznym „pianiem” podczas wdechu 17.

Objawy kaszlu i jego progresja

Naturalny przebieg kaszlu po infekcji

Kaszel po infekcji górnych dróg oddechowych ma zwykle przewidywalny przebieg, który można podzielić na kilka faz 8:

  • Faza początkowa (dni 1-3): Początek infekcji górnych dróg oddechowych. Objawy obejmują ból gardła, przekrwienie błony śluzowej nosa i łagodny kaszel spowodowany podrażnieniem lub spływaniem wydzieliny po tylnej ścianie gardła 8.
  • Faza szczytowa (dni 4-7): Kaszel staje się bardziej wyraźny. Jest to reakcja organizmu na oczyszczanie dróg oddechowych z wydzieliny i substancji drażniących. Kaszel może być suchy lub towarzyszyć mu odkrztuszanie plwociny 8.
  • Faza ustępowania (dni 8-14): Stopniowa poprawa. Kaszel może się utrzymywać, ale staje się mniej nasilony i rzadszy. Jest to część procesu zdrowienia 8.
  • Kaszel poinfekcyjny (do 3-8 tygodni): U niektórych osób kaszel może utrzymywać się nawet po ustąpieniu innych objawów. Jest to tzw. kaszel powirusowy lub poinfekcyjny 89.

Objawy towarzyszące kaszlowi

Kaszlowi mogą towarzyszyć różne objawy, w zależności od jego przyczyny 4. Najczęściej są to:

  • Katar lub zatkany nos 4
  • Uczucie spływania wydzieliny po tylnej ścianie gardła (tzw. spływanie pozagardłowe) 4
  • Częste odchrząkiwanie 4
  • Ból gardła 4
  • Chrypka 4
  • Świszczący oddech i duszność 4
  • Zgaga lub kwaśny smak w ustach 4
  • W rzadkich przypadkach odkrztuszanie krwi 4

W przypadku kaszlu przewlekłego mogą wystąpić dodatkowe objawy i powikłania, takie jak 43:

  • Zaburzenia snu 3
  • Bóle głowy 3
  • Wymioty 3
  • Nadmierna potliwość 3
  • Niezamierzone nietrzymanie moczu 3
  • Złamania żeber 3
  • Omdlenia 3

Znaki poprawy i ustępowania kaszlu

Istnieje kilka kluczowych oznak wskazujących na ustępowanie kaszlu 1010:

  • Zmniejszenie podrażnienia gardła 10
  • Rzadsze napady kaszlu 10
  • Mniejsza intensywność kaszlu 10
  • Lepsza jakość snu 10
  • Bardziej komfortowe oddychanie 10
  • Ustąpienie gorączki 10
  • Mniejsza ilość wydzieliny lub jej klarowanie (wydzielina staje się rzadsza i bardziej przezroczysta) 10
  • Brak potrzeby stosowania leków i środków domowych na kaszel 10

Warto zauważyć, że kaszel może wydawać się gorszy, zanim zacznie się poprawiać. Jeśli suchy kaszel zaczyna produkować wydzielinę (staje się produktywny), może to oznaczać, że organizm skutecznie zwalcza infekcję 10.

Kaszel krztuścowy – szczególny przebieg

Krztusiec (koklusz) ma charakterystyczny przebieg obejmujący trzy fazy 71112:

  1. Faza nieżytowa (1-2 tygodnie): Objawy przypominają przeziębienie – katar, niewielka gorączka, łagodny, sporadyczny kaszel. W tej fazie krztusiec jest najbardziej zaraźliwy 712.
  2. Faza napadowa (1-2 miesiące): Kaszel staje się bardziej nasilony. Występują napady kaszlu, którym może towarzyszyć charakterystyczne „pianie” przy wdechu. Osoba może sinieć i wymiotować śluz lub pokarm. Mogą też występować krótkie okresy bezdechu 71112.
  3. Faza zdrowienia (tygodnie do miesięcy): Faza powolnego powrotu do zdrowia. Napady kaszlu mogą powracać przy kolejnych infekcjach dróg oddechowych 71112.

Krztusiec nazywany jest „kaszlem studziowym”, ponieważ napadowy kaszel może utrzymywać się do 100 dni 11. U osób zaszczepionych objawy mogą być łagodniejsze, a charakterystyczne „pianie” może nie występować 11.

Kiedy zgłosić się do lekarza

Objawy alarmowe wymagające pilnej konsultacji

Należy niezwłocznie skontaktować się z lekarzem, jeśli kaszlowi towarzyszą następujące objawy 11314:

  • Gorączka powyżej 38,6°C lub gorączka utrzymująca się dłużej niż dzień lub dwa 113
  • Odkrztuszanie krwi 113
  • Ból w klatce piersiowej niezwiązany z samym kaszlem 1314
  • Duszność lub trudności z oddychaniem 113
  • Utrata wagi 13
  • Osłabienie, zmęczenie, utrata apetytu 13
  • Świsty (dźwięk przy wydechu) 113
  • Poty nocne 13
  • Obfite odkrztuszanie plwociny, szczególnie żółtej, zielonej lub krwistej 1
  • Omdlenia lub zawroty głowy 14
  • Wymioty i dławienie się, szczególnie u dzieci 14

Kaszel przewlekły – wskazania do konsultacji

Należy skonsultować się z lekarzem, jeśli 5156:

  • Kaszel utrzymuje się dłużej niż 3 tygodnie 515
  • Kaszel budzi w nocy lub zakłóca sen 5
  • Kaszel wpływa na codzienne funkcjonowanie, pracę lub naukę 5
  • Kaszel jest bardzo nasilony lub szybko się pogarsza 6
  • Jesteś osobą palącą i rozwinął się u Ciebie uporczywy kaszel 6

Przewlekły kaszel może być objawem poważniejszego schorzenia, takiego jak 6:

  • Rak płuc 6
  • Niewydolność serca 6
  • Zatorowość płucna (zakrzep krwi w płucach) 6
  • Gruźlica 6

Kaszel u dzieci – wskazania do konsultacji

W przypadku dzieci, należy skonsultować się z lekarzem, jeśli 61617:

  • Kaszel trwa dłużej niż 3 tygodnie 16
  • Dziecko ma trudności z oddychaniem 18
  • Dziecko ma wysoką gorączkę 18
  • Kaszel przerywa sen lub spowalnia aktywność dziecka 17
  • Kaszel brzmi jak szczekanie foki (może wskazywać na krup) 17
  • Dziecko ma napad kaszlu trwający ponad 5 minut 16
  • Dziecko odkrztusza kolorową wydzielinę (żółtą, zieloną) 16

Należy natychmiast udać się do szpitala, jeśli dziecko ma niebieski kolor skóry, trudności z oddychaniem lub doświadcza niewydolności oddechowej spowodowanej astmą 18.

Najczęstsze przyczyny kaszlu

Przyczyny kaszlu ostrego i podostrego

Najczęstsze przyczyny kaszlu ostrego (trwającego krócej niż 3 tygodnie) i podostrego (trwającego 3-8 tygodni) to 13:

  • Przeziębienie 1
  • Grypa 1
  • Ostre zapalenie oskrzeli lub oskrzelików 1
  • Zapalenie zatok 1
  • Zapalenie płuc 1
  • Krztusiec (koklusz) 1
  • Astma 1
  • Alergie 1
  • Narażenie na dym tytoniowy (bierne i czynne) 1

Kaszel podostry jest najczęściej poinfekcyjny, występuje po przebytej infekcji wirusowej i jest spowodowany utrzymującym się podrażnieniem receptorów kaszlowych przez toczące się lub ustępujące zapalenie oskrzeli lub zatok 3.

Przyczyny kaszlu przewlekłego

Najczęstsze przyczyny kaszlu przewlekłego (trwającego ponad 8 tygodni) to 145:

  • Przewlekłe zapalenie oskrzeli 1
  • Astma 45
  • Alergie 1
  • Przewlekła obturacyjna choroba płuc (POChP) 4
  • Choroby refluksowe przełyku (GERD) 45
  • Zaburzenia gardła, w tym zaburzenia strun głosowych 1
  • Spływanie wydzieliny po tylnej ścianie gardła 15
  • Niewydolność serca i inne choroby kardiologiczne 1
  • Nieastmatyczne eozynofilowe zapalenie oskrzeli 19
  • Przyjmowanie inhibitorów konwertazy angiotensyny (ACE) 13

Trzy najczęstsze przyczyny kaszlu przewlekłego to spływanie wydzieliny po tylnej ścianie gardła, astma i refluks żołądkowo-przełykowy – odpowiadają one za nawet 90% wszystkich przypadków kaszlu przewlekłego 520.

Rzadsze przyczyny kaszlu

Rzadsze przyczyny kaszlu przewlekłego obejmują 1533:

  • Nowotwory płuc 13
  • Choroby śródmiąższowe płuc 3
  • Sarkoidoza 21
  • Rozstrzenie oskrzeli 21
  • Mukowiscydoza 21
  • Zatorowość płucna 21
  • Gruźlica 15
  • Infekcje grzybicze 15
  • Obturacyjny bezdech senny 3
  • Przewlekłe zapalenie zatok 3
  • Kaszel psychogenny 3

Czynniki ryzyka i predyspozycje

Niektóre osoby są bardziej narażone na występowanie kaszlu 119. Czynniki ryzyka obejmują:

  • Palenie tytoniu (aktywne i bierne) 22
  • Przewlekłe choroby układu oddechowego (astma, POChP) 22
  • Alergie 22
  • Choroby refluksowe przełyku 22
  • Narażenie na zanieczyszczenia środowiska, kurz lub drażniące substancje chemiczne 22
  • Infekcje dróg oddechowych 22
  • Wiek – częstość występowania przewlekłego kaszlu zwiększa się u osób w wieku 50-60 lat 23
  • Płeć – przewlekły kaszel jest dwa razy częstszy u kobiet niż u mężczyzn 23

Powikłania i wpływ na jakość życia

Powikłania kaszlu

Długotrwały lub intensywny kaszel może prowadzić do różnych powikłań 4324:

  • Zaburzenia snu – kaszel może utrudniać zasypianie i prowadzić do bezsenności 43
  • Bóle głowy – intensywny kaszel może wywoływać lub nasilać bóle głowy 424
  • Zawroty głowy – mogą być wynikiem intensywnych napadów kaszlu 424
  • Wymioty – silny kaszel może prowokować wymioty 43
  • Nadmierna potliwość 43
  • Nietrzymanie moczu – szczególnie u kobiet 4324
  • Złamania żeber – mogą wystąpić przy bardzo intensywnym, długotrwałym kaszlu 4324
  • Omdlenia (syncope) – spowodowane zmniejszonym przepływem krwi do mózgu podczas intensywnych napadów kaszlu 43

Wpływ na jakość życia

Przewlekły kaszel może znacząco obniżać jakość życia 52526:

  • Zakłócanie codziennych aktywności i pracy 5
  • Problemy ze snem i wynikające z tego zmęczenie 526
  • Zaburzenia oddychania 26
  • Wyczerpanie 26
  • Depresja i stres 2625
  • Nietrzymanie moczu związane z kaszlem 26
  • Strach przed wyjściem w miejsca publiczne 26
  • Problemy w relacjach międzyludzkich 25
  • Izolacja społeczna 25

W przypadku przewlekłego kaszlu u dzieci, może on również wpływać na ich wyniki w szkole, aktywność fizyczną i ogólny rozwój 6.

Zespół nadwrażliwości na kaszel

Długotrwały kaszel może prowadzić do powstania błędnego koła, w którym struny głosowe są mocno uderzane o siebie podczas kaszlu, co prowadzi do ich podrażnienia. To z kolei może wywoływać więcej kaszlu i zwiększoną produkcję śluzu, co jeszcze bardziej nasila kaszel 26. Taki przewlekły kaszel może być objawem zespołu nadwrażliwości na kaszel, który jest obrazem klinicznym odzwierciedlającym nadwrażliwość obwodowych nerwów dróg oddechowych lub ośrodkowego układu nerwowego (lub obu) 23.

Specyficzne typy kaszlu

Kaszel suchy i mokry

Kaszel suchy (nieproduktywny) i mokry (produktywny) to dwa główne typy kaszlu 627:

  • Kaszel suchy: Jest drażniący i nie produkuje wydzieliny (plwociny). Występuje najczęściej, gdy drogi oddechowe są zapalone lub podrażnione, co obniża próg wyzwalania kaszlu 27. Typowo pojawia się przy infekcjach wirusowych, alergiach, astmie i zapaleniu oskrzeli 28.
  • Kaszel mokry: Prowadzi do odkrztuszania śluzu (plwociny) z dróg oddechowych, dlatego nazywany jest kaszlem produktywnym 6. Jest to normalny sposób oczyszczania dróg oddechowych 27. Typowo występuje przy przeziębieniu, grypie, astmie, zapaleniu oskrzeli, POChP i zapaleniu płuc 28.

Kaszel napadowy

Kaszel napadowy (paroksyzmalny) to gwałtowny i niekontrolowany kaszel, który jest wyczerpujący i bolesny 2829. Osoba może mieć trudności z oddychaniem podczas kaszlu i może nawet wymiotować 29. Najczęstszą przyczyną kaszlu napadowego jest krztusiec (koklusz) 28.

Kaszel krupiarzowy

Krup to zakażenie wirusowe powodujące podrażnienie i obrzęk górnych dróg oddechowych, co utrudnia oddychanie 2830. Kaszel przy krupie ma charakterystyczny, „szczekający” dźwięk i może powodować chrypkę oraz świszczący oddech 28. U większości dzieci objawy krupu są łagodne, ale mogą się nasilać w nocy i budzić dziecko ze snu 30.

Kaszel przy COVID-19 i Long COVID

Kaszel jest jednym z objawów COVID-19. Może również być częścią zespołu po-COVID (tzw. Long COVID) 131. W ramach Long COVID kaszel może utrzymywać się przez tygodnie lub miesiące po przebytej infekcji 1. Może to być kaszel suchy lub z odkrztuszaniem plwociny 31.

Kaszel-wariant astmy

U niektórych osób astma może objawiać się głównie jako kaszel, bez klasycznego świszczącego oddechu 332. Taki typ astmy nazywany jest „kaszlem jako wariantem astmy” (cough-variant asthma). Kaszel może nasilać się po wysiłku fizycznym, przy ekspozycji na zimne powietrze lub określone chemikalia i zapachy 4.

Kaszel nocny

Kaszel, który nasila się w nocy, może być spowodowany 933:

  • Astmą 9
  • Spływaniem wydzieliny po tylnej ścianie gardła 9
  • Refluksem żołądkowo-przełykowym 13
  • Niewydolnością serca – gdy lewy przedsionek nie pompuje efektywnie krwi do przodu, powodując zastój krwi w żyłach płucnych i w konsekwencji obrzęk płuc 33

Kaszel pojawiający się na początku snu i rano po przebudzeniu zwykle jest spowodowany zapaleniem zatok. Kaszel w środku nocy bardziej odpowiada astmie 34.

Kaszel w różnych grupach pacjentów

Kaszel u dzieci

Kaszel u dzieci może mieć inne przyczyny i charakterystykę niż u dorosłych 634:

  • Kaszel jest uznawany za przewlekły, jeśli trwa dłużej niż 4 tygodnie (w przeciwieństwie do 8 tygodni u dorosłych) 435
  • Najczęstsze przyczyny ostrego kaszlu to infekcje górnych dróg oddechowych wywołane przez wirusy 34
  • Najczęstsze przyczyny przewlekłego kaszlu to astma, refluks żołądkowo-przełykowy i spływanie wydzieliny po tylnej ścianie gardła 34
  • U niemowląt i małych dzieci przyczyną mokrego kaszlu może być zapalenie oskrzelików – infekcja płuc powszechna w tej grupie wiekowej 36
  • Przedłużające się zapalenie oskrzeli na tle bakteryjnym jest częstą przyczyną przewlekłego kaszlu u dzieci 32
  • Kaszel psychogenny jest bardzo rzadko diagnozowany u dzieci 37

Kaszel u osób starszych

U osób starszych kaszel może być bardziej uciążliwy i prowadzić do poważniejszych konsekwencji 4:

  • Większe ryzyko złamań żeber z powodu osteoporozy 3
  • Większe ryzyko nietrzymania moczu 3
  • Większe prawdopodobieństwo wystąpienia chorób współistniejących, które mogą być przyczyną kaszlu lub go nasilać 19
  • Większa częstość występowania przewlekłego kaszlu, szczególnie u osób w wieku 50-60 lat 23
  • Większe ryzyko poważnych powikłań, takich jak zapalenie płuc 38

Kaszel u kobiet w ciąży

Kaszel u kobiet w ciąży może być trudniejszy do leczenia ze względu na ograniczenia dotyczące stosowania niektórych leków 3. Przewlekły kaszel może również zwiększać ryzyko nietrzymania moczu, które jest już podwyższone w ciąży 3.

Kaszel u palaczy

Kaszel u palaczy ma specyficzną charakterystykę 39:

  • Jest zwykle przewlekły i produktywny (mokry) 40
  • Często nasila się rano 33
  • Może być związany z przewlekłym zapaleniem oskrzeli, które z definicji jest kaszlem utrzymującym się przez ponad trzy miesiące w ciągu dwóch kolejnych lat 3
  • Może niezauważalnie narastać przez dekady 9
  • Palacze są bardziej narażeni na długotrwały i cięższy przewlekły kaszel niż osoby niepalące 39
  • Przewlekły kaszel może być wczesnym objawem ostrzegawczym raka płuc u wieloletnich palaczy 39

Podsumowanie

Kaszel to powszechny objaw, który może mieć wiele przyczyn – od łagodnych infekcji po poważne choroby układu oddechowego. Ważne jest zrozumienie naturalnego przebiegu kaszlu oraz rozpoznawanie sygnałów ostrzegawczych, które mogą wskazywać na potrzebę konsultacji medycznej.

W większości przypadków kaszel ustępuje samoistnie w ciągu 1-3 tygodni 4142. Jeśli kaszel utrzymuje się dłużej niż 3 tygodnie, towarzyszy mu gorączka, odkrztuszanie krwi, duszność lub inne niepokojące objawy, należy skonsultować się z lekarzem 113.

Przewlekły kaszel (trwający ponad 8 tygodni u dorosłych lub 4 tygodnie u dzieci) wymaga dokładnej diagnostyki, ponieważ może być objawem poważniejszych schorzeń, takich jak astma, refluks żołądkowo-przełykowy, przewlekłe zapalenie oskrzeli czy choroby serca 14.

Leczenie kaszlu zależy od jego przyczyny i powinno być ustalone przez lekarza. Właściwe rozpoznanie i leczenie podstawowej choroby jest kluczowe dla skutecznego złagodzenia kaszlu 15.

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 10.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Cough: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment & Conditions
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough
    A cough is a natural reflex that is your bodys way of removing irritants from your upper (throat) and lower (lungs) airways. A cough helps your body heal and protect itself. […] Acute cough begins suddenly and lasts for two to three weeks. […] Subacute cough is one that stays around after youve had an infection and lasts three to eight weeks. […] Chronic cough lasts longer than eight weeks. Long-lasting coughs may also be called persistent coughs. […] Refractory cough is a chronic cough that hasnt responded to treatment. […] A productive cough, or a wet cough, is a cough that brings up mucus or phlegm. […] A non-productive cough, or a dry cough, doesnt bring up mucus or phlegm. […] Whooping. Pertussis, or whooping cough, is an infection that causes a cough that sounds like a whoop.
  • #1 Cough: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment & Conditions
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough
    Treating a cough will depend on what is causing the cough. […] Water can be good for a cough. Drinking it can help ease a cough from throat irritation or dryness. […] Quitting smoking and avoiding other irritants are also ways to relieve a cough. […] In general, call your healthcare provider if you have a cough that will not go away and these symptoms: Wheezing (noise when you breathe out), Fever over 101.5 Fahrenheit or fever that lasts more than a day or two, Chills, Phlegm (thick mucus, also called sputum), especially phlegm that is yellow, green, or bloody. […] Cough is a symptom of COVID-19. It can also be part of a post-COVID syndrome (or long COVID). […] As part of long COVID, a cough can continue for weeks or months after youve been infected.
  • #1 Cough: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment & Conditions
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough
    Wheezing. This type of cough often happens when you have blocked airways. It can be associated with an infection, like a cold, or chronic conditions, like asthma. […] Anyone can get a cough. A cough is the most common symptom reported in healthcare providers’ offices. […] However, some people are more likely to get coughs than others. […] There are many things that can make you cough. […] Medical conditions that can cause acute and subacute cough include Cold, Flu, Acute bronchitis or bronchiolitis, Sinusitis, Pneumonia, Whooping cough (also called pertussis), Asthma, Allergies, Acute second- or third-hand smoke exposure. […] Medical conditions that can cause chronic cough include Chronic bronchitis, Asthma, Allergies, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other lung conditions, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Throat disorders, including vocal cord disorders, Postnasal drip, Heart failure and other cardiac conditions.
  • #2 Learn About Cough | American Lung Association
    https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/warning-signs-of-lung-disease/cough/learn-about-cough
    A cough is an important reflex that helps protect the airways and lungs. […] A persistent cough, one that doesn’t go away, is not normal. Any cough that lasts more than 8 weeks should be discussed with your doctor. […] A cough that doesn’t go away or comes with other symptoms like shortness of breath, mucus production or bloody phlegm could be the sign of a more serious medical problem. […] Chronic coughs last longer than eight weeks and can be the sign of a more serious or chronic lung disease.
  • #3 Cough – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493221/
    Cough is one of the most common medical complaints accounting for as many as 30 million clinical visits per year. Up to 40% of these complaints result in a referral to a pulmonologist. A cough is an innate primitive reflex and acts as part of the bodys immune system to protect against foreign materials. Coughing is associated with a wide assortment of clinical associations and etiologies. Furthermore, there are no objective tools to measure or clinically quantify a cough. […] Given the vagueness of this symptoms nature, along with the risk of an insidious underlying etiology, heavy impact on quality of life, and a lack of objective tools, coughing should be evaluated and treated as an important issue until a benign source is isolated. […] The etiology of a cough is an arbitrary classification based largely on the duration of a cough. If a cough is presently less than three weeks, it is designated as acute. If a cough is present for three to eight weeks, it is designated as subacute. If a cough is presently greater than eight weeks, it is designated as chronic.
  • #3 Cough – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493221/
    Coughing in itself is relatively benign. However, the precise prognosis a patient faces is heavily reliant on the underlying etiology. […] Persistent cough or severe bouts of cough can cause complications, and these include: sleep disruption, headache, vomiting, syncope, excessive sweating, rib fracture, urinary incontinence. […] Management of cough may require teamwork by different specialties. New onset of a chronic cough without obvious etiology should prompt a referral to a pulmonologist or cough specialist. If poor cardiac function is suspected, then a referral to a cardiologist is recommended for the evaluation of congestive heart failure. If a gastrointestinal aberration is suspected, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, referral to a gastroenterologist is warranted.
  • #3 Cough – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493221/
    Subacute coughing is most commonly post-infectious secondary to continued irritation of cough receptors via ongoing or resolving bronchial or sinus inflammation from a preceding viral upper respiratory infection. Both acute and subacute coughs are self-limiting illnesses that typically require only supportive measures. […] A chronic cough is a more difficult diagnosis to elucidate and typically will require referral to a cough specialist or a pulmonologist for evaluation. Possible causes include upper airway cough syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease, non-asthmatic eosinophilic bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, postinfectious cough, intolerance to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor medication, malignancy, interstitial lung diseases, obstructive sleep apnea, chronic sinusitis, and psychosomatic cough.
  • #3 Cough – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493221/
    A post-infectious cough occurs due to increased cough receptor sensitivity and temporary bronchial hyperresponsiveness during the recovery from a worse pulmonary infection. This is likely closely related to developed epithelial damage from the initial pathology. […] Cough variant asthma presents primarily with coughing, not wheezes, as in typical asthma. These patients will have normal spirometry at baseline, but positive methacholine challenge, when tested. This should be suspected if a cough is non-productive, repetitive, occurs day and night, and is exacerbated by exercise, cold air, or upper respiratory infection. […] Malignancy may cause a mass effect with physical obstruction or collapse of the airways, thus inducing mucus accumulation and secondary infections in addition to irritation of the cough receptors directly.
  • #3 Cough – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493221/
    Interstitial lung diseases are a large group of disorders that cause progressive scarring and hardening of lung tissue. These occur as the result of long-term exposure to various hazardous materials, such as asbestos, silicone, coal dust, radiation, or heavy metals. […] Obstructive sleep apnea is characterized by a partial or complete obstruction of the airway transiently during sleep. This increase in airway resistance causes a reflexive diaphragmatic and chest muscle spasm and cough to open the obstructed airway and pull air into the lungs. […] Chronic sinusitis-induced cough chronically as a result of prolonged inflammation and irritation of the sinus and nasal mucosa with purulent discharge secondary to a bacterial pathogen. […] A psychosomatic cough is rarely diagnosed and, as an etiology, should be avoided unless no other explanation can be elucidated. This is the act of coughing as a habit rather than as part of a disease process.
  • #3 Cough – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493221/
    Upper airway cough syndrome is the most common etiology of a chronic cough. There is a wide spectrum of illnesses that encompass this disease, including allergic rhinitis, non-allergic rhinitis, post-infectious, and/or bacterial or viral rhinosinusitis. Essentially, upper airway cough syndrome is a longstanding post-nasal drip that irritates the upper airway, inducing cough. […] Gastroesophageal reflux disease accounts for up to 40% of chronic coughs and occurs as a result of the retropulsion of acidic contents from the stomach into the pharynx and larynx. This leads to irritation of laryngeal receptors and episodic microaspiration. […] Chronic bronchitis is, by definition, a cough that has been present for longer than three months consecutively over two years. A cough is commonly present here as a result of excessive mucous secretions causing mucous plugging of the airways. An inflammatory component has also been suggested in this etiology. Chronic bronchitis does not have an infectious component; however, it predisposes the patient to bacterial infections, which may worsen the illness, creating a positive feedback loop of coughing.
  • #4 Chronic cough – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-cough/symptoms-causes/syc-20351575
    A chronic cough is a cough that lasts eight weeks or longer in adults, or four weeks in children. A chronic cough can occur with other symptoms, including: A runny or stuffy nose. A feeling of liquid running down the back of your throat, also known as postnasal drip. Clearing your throat a lot. Sore throat. Hoarseness. Wheezing and shortness of breath. Heartburn or a sour taste in your mouth. In rare cases, coughing up blood. See your healthcare professional if you have a cough that lasts for weeks, especially one that brings up sputum or blood, disturbs your sleep, or affects school or work. Most cases of chronic cough are due to these causes, which can occur alone or together: Postnasal drip. When your nose or sinuses produce extra mucus, it can drip down the back of your throat and cause you to cough. This condition also is called upper airway cough syndrome. Asthma. An asthma-related cough may come and go with the seasons. It may appear after an upper respiratory tract infection. Or it can get worse when you’re exposed to cold air or certain chemicals or fragrances. In one type of asthma known as cough-variant asthma, a cough is the main symptom. Gastroesophageal reflux disease. In this common condition, also called GERD, stomach acid flows back into the tube that connects your stomach and throat. This tube is also known as your esophagus. The constant irritation can lead to chronic coughing. Then the coughing can make GERD worse, creating a vicious cycle. Infections. A cough can last long after other symptoms of pneumonia, flu, a cold or another infection of the upper respiratory tract have gone away. A common cause of a chronic cough in adults but one that often isn’t recognized is whooping cough, also known as pertussis. Chronic cough also can occur with fungal infections of the lung, as well as tuberculosis infection, also called TB, or lung infection with nontuberculous mycobacteria, also called NTM. NTM is found in soil, water and dust. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Also called COPD, this is a lifelong inflammatory lung disease that limits airflow from the lungs. COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis can cause a cough that brings up colored sputum. Emphysema causes shortness of breath and damages the air sacs in the lungs, also known as alveoli. Most people with COPD are current or former smokers. Having a cough that doesn’t stop can be very tiring. Coughing can cause various concerns, including: Sleep disruption. Headache. Dizziness. Vomiting. Sweating a lot. Unintended bladder loss, also known as urinary incontinence. Broken ribs. Passing out, also known as syncope.
  • #5 Chronic Cough: Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview
    Chronic cough is a cough that lasts more than eight weeks in adults and four weeks in children. Chronic cough is usually a symptom of another health condition. But sometimes, it’s a disease without an underlying cause. […] Less commonly, you might notice more serious signs of chronic cough. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice: Coughing up blood or phlegm. […] Chronic cough affects 10% to 20% of the U.S. population. It’s one of the most common reasons why people visit their healthcare providers every year. […] The most common chronic cough causes include asthma, postnasal drip and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). These conditions account for up to 90% of all chronic cough cases. […] Treatment for chronic cough depends on the associated health condition. Your healthcare provider will discuss a tailored treatment plan based on your unique needs.
  • #5 Chronic Cough: Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15048-chronic-cough-overview
    Chronic coughing can affect your life in negative ways that disrupt your daily routine. The most obvious is that you can become extremely tired because you can’t sleep (insomnia). Coughing nonstop can also make your muscles hurt and even break your ribs. […] You should schedule a visit with a healthcare provider if you have a lingering cough that won’t go away.
  • #6 Cough | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/lungs-and-airways/cough/
    A cough is a reflex action to clear your airways of phlegm and irritants such as dust or smoke. Its rarely a sign of anything serious. […] Most coughs clear up within 3 weeks and dont need any treatment. […] A dry cough means its tickly and doesnt produce any mucus (phlegm). A chesty cough means phlegm is produced to help clear your airways. […] If your GP is unsure whats causing your cough, they may refer you to a specialist. They may also request some tests, such as a chest X-ray, allergy tests, breathing tests, and an analysis of a sample of your phlegm to check for infection. […] Common causes of a short-term cough include: an upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) that affects the throat, windpipe or sinuses for example a cold, flu, laryngitis, sinusitis or whooping cough. […] A persistent cough may be caused by: asthma this also usually causes other symptoms, such as wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath.
  • #6 Cough | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/lungs-and-airways/cough/
    In most cases, a doctor will need to know if you are producing much more or darker phlegm than usual. […] Rarely, a persistent cough can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as lung cancer, heart failure, a pulmonary embolism (blood clot on the lung) or tuberculosis. […] Coughs in children can also be caused by respiratory tract infections, asthma or GORD. […] Occasionally, a persistent cough in a child can be a sign of a serious long-term condition, such as cystic fibrosis.
  • #7 Symptoms of Whooping Cough | Whooping Cough | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/signs-symptoms/index.html
    Early symptoms of pertussis (whooping cough) can look like a common cold. […] It usually takes 5 to 10 days for symptoms to appear after exposure to the bacteria that cause whooping cough. Sometimes symptoms don’t develop for as long as 3 weeks. […] Whooping cough appears similar to a common cold early on. Healthcare providers often don’t suspect or diagnose it until more severe symptoms appear. […] Early symptoms can last for 1 to 2 weeks and usually include: Runny or stuffed-up nose, Low-grade fever (less than 100.4F), Mild, occasional cough. […] Many babies with whooping cough don’t cough at all. Instead, they may have apnea (life-threatening pauses in breathing). The apnea may cause cyanosis (to turn blue) or they may struggle to breathe. […] One to 2 weeks after the first symptoms start, people may develop paroxysms, known as coughing fits. These coughing fits usually last 1 to 6 weeks but can last for up to 10 weeks. The cough generally gets worse and becomes more common as the illness continues.
  • #8 Understanding your cough and cold symptoms – Priory Gate Practice
    https://www.coventrydoctors.com/news/understanding-your-cough-and-cold-symptoms
    A cough following a viral upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) is a common symptom that can cause concern. However, understanding its natural progression is vital for effective management and to avoid unnecessary treatments. The Natural Progression of Cough […] Initial Phase (Days 1-3): The onset of URTI. Symptoms include a sore throat, nasal congestion, and mild cough due to irritation or postnasal drip. […] Peak Phase (Days 4-7): Cough becomes more prominent. It is the body’s response to clear the airways of mucus and irritants. The cough may be dry or accompanied by phlegm. […] Resolution Phase (Days 8-14): Gradual improvement. The cough may persist but becomes less severe and frequent. It is a part of the body’s healing process. […] Post-Infectious Cough (Up to 3-8 weeks): In some individuals, a cough may linger even after other symptoms have resolved. This is known as a post-viral or post-infectious cough. […] Understanding the natural course of a cough after a viral URTI can help in managing expectations and avoiding unnecessary treatments. However, if there are concerning symptoms or if the cough persists beyond the typical duration, seeking medical advice is essential.
  • #9 Cough in Adults – Lung and Airway Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/lung-and-airway-disorders/symptoms-of-lung-disorders/cough-in-adults
    Cough may be characterized as dry (unproductive) or productive, bringing up blood or sputum (also called phlegm). […] Cough may be very distressing and interfere with sleep. However, if coughing increases slowly over decades, as it may in people who smoke, people may hardly be aware of it. […] In people with a cough, certain symptoms and characteristics are cause for concern. They include shortness of breath, coughing up blood, weight loss, fever that lasts longer than about 1 week, and risk factors for HIV infection or tuberculosis. […] People who have had a chronic cough but no warning signs should see a doctor at some point, but a delay of a week or so is unlikely to be harmful. […] The best way to treat cough is to treat the underlying disorder. […] Generally, because coughing plays an important role in bringing up sputum and clearing the airways, a cough should not be suppressed. However, if the cough is severe, interferes with sleep, or has certain causes, various treatments may be tried.
  • #10 Signs a Cough Is Getting Better: Mucus, Fever, Sound
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/signs-a-cough-is-getting-better-7500660
    Key signs that your cough is getting better include a reduction in throat irritation, less frequent coughing fits, and better sleep quality. If your cough is caused by a viral infection, it should improve within three weeks, although some coughs can linger for up to eight weeks. […] A cough might also appear to get worse before it gets better. If your dry cough starts producing mucus (productive cough), it could mean your body is clearing the infection. […] It’s a good sign your cough is ending if you start noticing less mucus in your throat and sinuses. The mucus should also be getting thinner and clearer again. […] Increased mucus production can be a sign that your body is effectively expelling the virus or irritant. But it can also be a sign that the cough is evolving into a more severe condition, such as bronchitis.
  • #10 Signs a Cough Is Getting Better: Mucus, Fever, Sound
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/signs-a-cough-is-getting-better-7500660
    As the days and weeks pass, you should find yourself coughing less frequently throughout the day. The coughs should be getting less forceful and causing fewer disruptions. […] It’s a good sign your cough is getting better if it’s disrupting your sleep less. […] One of the biggest signs that your cough is improving is if you start to breathe more comfortably. […] When your fever breaks (goes away), it is typically a sign that your body is winning the fight against the infection. […] It’s a clear sign your cough is improving if you no longer need home remedies or medications to relieve it. […] Your cough is likely getting better if it becomes less frequent and intense. It’s also a good sign the cough is improving if you are sleeping better, feeling less fatigued, and any other symptoms you may have had are resolving.
  • #11 Whooping cough – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whooping_cough
    Initial symptoms are usually similar to those of the common cold with a runny nose, fever, and mild cough, but these are followed by two or three months of severe coughing fits. […] The violent coughing may last for 10 or more weeks, hence the phrase „100-day cough”. […] The cough may be so hard that it causes vomiting, rib fractures, and fatigue. […] The classic symptoms of pertussis are a paroxysmal cough, inspiratory whoop, and fainting, or vomiting after coughing. […] The cough from pertussis has been documented to cause subconjunctival hemorrhages, rib fractures, urinary incontinence, hernias, and vertebral artery dissection. […] Violent coughing can cause the pleura to rupture, leading to a pneumothorax. […] The illness usually starts with mild respiratory symptoms including mild coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose (known as the catarrhal stage). After one or two weeks, the coughing classically develops into uncontrollable fits, sometimes followed by a high-pitched „whoop” sound, as the person tries to inhale.
  • #11 Whooping cough – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whooping_cough
    About 50% of children and adults „whoop” at some point in diagnosed pertussis cases during the paroxysmal stage. This stage usually lasts up to 3 months, or sometimes longer. […] A gradual transition then occurs to the convalescent stage, which usually lasts one to four weeks. A decrease in paroxysms of coughing marks this stage, although paroxysms may occur with subsequent respiratory infection for many months after the onset of pertussis. […] Symptoms of pertussis can be variable, especially between immunized and non-immunized people. Immunized people can present with a milder infection; they may only have the paroxysmal cough for a couple of weeks and may lack the „whooping” characteristic.
  • #12 Pertussis or Whooping Cough Fact Sheet
    https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2171/
    Symptoms usually appear about 7 to 10 days after exposure. But symptoms can appear from 4 to 21 days after a person is infected. It is rare but it can take up to 6 weeks to develop symptoms. Some people have milder symptoms, especially if they have been vaccinated. […] Symptoms appear in 3 stages: Stage one lasts 1-2 weeks: runny nose, sneezing, low-grade fever, mild occasional cough. It may look like the common cold but the cough begins to get worse. […] Stage two can last 1-2 months: Cough becomes more severe. There are coughing fits that can be followed by a high-pitched whoop. The whoop means the person is trying to catch their breath. Sometimes a person will turn blue and vomit mucus or food. They also may have brief periods when they stop breathing. […] Stage three may last weeks to months: Recovery phase is when a person slowly gets better. Coughing fits can come back if the person gets another respiratory illness.
  • #13 That Nagging Cough – Harvard Health Publishing – Harvard Health
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/that-nagging-cough
    Although a chronic cough is usually not serious, warning symptoms call for prompt medical care. The symptoms include: Fever, especially if it’s high or prolonged; Copious sputum production; Coughing up blood; Shortness of breath; Weight loss; Weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite; Chest pain that is not caused by the cough itself; Night sweats; Wheezing.
  • #13 That Nagging Cough – Harvard Health Publishing – Harvard Health
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/that-nagging-cough
    Postnasal drip is the leading cause of the lingering cough. But it’s far from the only cause. […] Asthma results from bronchospasm, the temporary, reversible narrowing of the medium-sized tubes that carry air into the lungs. […] Just as people are surprised to learn that asthma can cause coughing without wheezing; many people are shocked to learn that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause coughing without heartburn. […] Chronic bronchitis is persistent inflammation of the bronchial tubes causing airway narrowing and production of excess mucus. […] ACE inhibitors are favored by many doctors because they produce good results and have few side effects, with one exception — a persistent cough. It occurs in up to 10% of people taking an ACE inhibitor. The first symptom is often just a throat tickle, followed by a dry cough that can begin as soon as three weeks or as late as one year after the medication is started. Once the cough starts, it lingers and lingers.
  • #14 Signs to Visit Urgent Care or the ER for a Cough – OU Health
    https://www.ouhealth.com/blog/2024/january/signs-to-visit-urgent-care-or-the-er-for-a-cough/
    A cough is the body’s way of keeping the airway clear and helping prevent lung infection. Many things can cause a cough, like pollen or smoke. Respiratory illnesses such as a cold or the flu can also cause coughing and may require you visit an urgent care or an emergency room depending on any additional symptoms. […] While coughing is a common problem, it can also be a symptom of a worsening medical condition. Some signs that you may need to go to urgent care with your cough include: A cough that lasts more than three weeks, A persistent cough with a fever, Thick green or yellow phlegm, Fainting or shortness of breath, Night sweats or unusual weight loss. […] If you have the following severe symptoms with your cough, you should skip going to urgent care and head straight to the emergency room: Blood or pink-tinged mucus, Sharp or persistent chest pain, Vomiting and choking, especially for children, Problems with breathing and swallowing.
  • #15 9 Types of Cough – symptoms, causes and when to seek help
    https://info.isabelhealthcare.com/blog/9-types-of-cough-symptoms-causes-and-when-to-seek-help
    A cough is considered acute if it lasts less than three weeks and chronic if it lasts longer than eight weeks in adults or four weeks in children. […] The most common causes of persistent cough are allergic rhinitis, sinus infections, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux, eosinophilic bronchitis, smoking, infection, and medication side effects. Rarer causes include lung cancer, chest lymphomas, emphysema, sarcoidosis, and fungal infections including coccidiomycosis, histoplasmosis and tuberculosis. […] You should see your doctor if you experience any of the following: If you have a persistent cough lasting longer than 3 weeks and especially if it has gone on over 8 weeks. […] The causes of the various types of cough do overlap and so determining the type of cough and its severity and nature will help you decide where to seek care and treatment if needed.
  • #16 Cough
    https://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/a-z/cough/
    Most coughs are part of a cold. […] Coughs can be dry (no mucus) or wet (with white, yellow or green mucus). […] A coughing fit or spell is over 5 minutes of nonstop coughing. […] Viral coughs most often last for 2 to 3 weeks. […] Sometimes, your child will cough up lots of phlegm (mucus). The mucus can normally be gray, yellow or green. […] Cough lasts more than 3 weeks.
  • #17
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=sig57594
    A cough that is more noticeable when your child is lying down is usually caused by mucus running down the back of the throat (post-nasal drip) from an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold, sinusitis, or allergy. […] A cough during the night that sounds like a barking seal may be a sign of croup. […] A cough that is persistent, interrupts sleep, or slows your child down needs to be watched closely. A cough is more likely to be serious if it: […] A cough that lasts longer than 3 weeks is usually a sign of an allergy, sinus infection, asthma, or reflux. But it may mean a more serious problem. A visit to your child’s doctor is needed when a cough is persistent.
  • #18 Common Children’s Coughs Explained | Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
    https://www.choa.org/parent-resources/everyday-illnesses/common-kids-coughs-explained
    Call your doctor right away if you suspect whooping cough. It usually requires antibiotic treatment, and some kids may need to be treated in a hospital. […] If your child is turning a dusty blue color, having trouble breathing or experiencing respiratory distress due to asthma, this is an emergency. Your child should be evaluated immediately or taken to the nearest pediatric emergency department.
  • #18 Common Children’s Coughs Explained | Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
    https://www.choa.org/parent-resources/everyday-illnesses/common-kids-coughs-explained
    A childs cough can sound terribleand some may require a trip to the doctorbut most arent a sign of something serious. […] Coughing actually helps your child clear mucus from the airway, says Tracy Nailor, MD, MPH, a Pediatric Urgent Care Physician at Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta. We only worry about coughs if the child also has a high fever or trouble breathing. […] A wet cough is a moist cough that comes from the chest and often produces mucus or phlegm thats white, yellow or green. It may or may not be the sign of a bacterial infection. A long-lasting wet cough can lead to a serious chest infection. So if your child has a wet cough, its best to go ahead and call your pediatrician. […] Whooping cough starts out sounding like an ordinary cold but gradually becomes worse, especially at night, causing back-to-back coughing fits in children. After coughing, your child may breathe in deeply, making a whooping sound.
  • #19 Chronic Cough – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430791/
    Cough can be divided into 3 types based on the duration of symptoms: acute, subacute, and chronic cough. Chronic cough is a persistent cough that lasts 8 weeks or longer in adults, while subacute cough usually lasts 3 to 8 weeks, and acute cough typically lasts for less than 3 weeks. Chronic cough is a widespread yet underappreciated condition that imposes substantial illness on affected individuals. […] This article will also discuss the etiology, epidemiology, clinical manifestation, evaluation, and management associated with chronic cough. […] The most common etiologies of chronic cough involve a range of respiratory and nonrespiratory conditions. […] Chronic bronchitis, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by persistent cough due to increased mucus production in the airways. Chronic bronchitis is often associated with smoking and remains a significant cause of chronic cough.
  • #19 Chronic Cough – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430791/
    Reflux-induced cough can occur through direct and indirect mechanisms. These mechanisms are related to the effects of stomach acid and lead to chronic cough. […] The cough observed in UACS patients is suggested to arise from the hypersensitivity of sensory nerves in the upper and lower airways or a combination of these factors. […] Cough is a common symptom associated with ILD and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The etiology of coughing in IPF remains poorly understood. […] A chronic cough with an unknown cause that does not respond to empirical treatment and is refractory can be considered idiopathic. […] Chronic cough has a global prevalence of 3% to 18% in the general adult population and is affected by several factors, such as smoking and age. […] The presence of cough was an independent predictor of disease progression, regardless of the severity of the disease. […] A recent study revealed that many individuals diagnosed with chronic cough continued to experience persistent coughing for at least 5 years. […] Chronic cough, when left unaddressed, can lead to a range of complications that significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.
  • #20 Patient education: Chronic cough in adults (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/chronic-cough-in-adults-beyond-the-basics/print
    Coughing from time to time helps clear particles and secretions from the lungs and helps to prevent infection. However, sometimes a cough can become a chronic condition. A chronic cough is usually defined as a cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer. […] Although coughing is not usually a sign of a serious problem, it can be annoying. Coughing frequently is embarrassing, can make you physically tired, make it hard to sleep, and cause you to be dizzy, hoarse, strain muscles (or even break a rib), sweat, and leak urine (especially in females). […] The most common causes of chronic cough are postnasal drip, asthma, and acid reflux from the stomach. These three causes account for up to 90 percent of all cases of chronic cough. […] Asthma is the second most frequent cause of chronic cough in adults and is the leading cause in children. In addition to coughing, you may also wheeze or feel short of breath.
  • #21 Cough
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/cough/basics/causes/sym-20050846
    While a cough once in a while is common, a cough that lasts for several weeks or one that brings up discolored or bloody mucus may be a sign of a medical condition. A cough is called „acute” if it lasts less than three weeks. It’s called „chronic” if it lasts longer than eight weeks in adults or longer than four weeks in children. […] Some infections, particularly whooping cough, may cause so much inflammation that the cough can last for many weeks or even months after the infection itself has cleared up. […] Common lung causes of chronic cough include: Asthma (most common in children), Bronchiectasis, which leads to a buildup of mucus that can be streaked with blood and raise the risk of infection, Chronic bronchitis, COPD a long-term lung disease that causes trouble with breathing, Cystic fibrosis, Emphysema a lung condition that causes shortness of breath, Lung cancer, Pulmonary embolism, Sarcoidosis, Tuberculosis.
  • #22 Chronic Cough Treatment | The University of Kansas Health System
    https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/care/conditions/chronic-cough
    You may notice more serious symptoms in combination with your chronic cough as well: Chest pain, Coughing up blood, Headaches or dizziness, Heartburn, High fever, Painful cough, including rib pain that could indicate a fracture from excessive coughing, Symptoms that consistently interrupt your sleep, Vomiting due to forceful coughing. […] There are several possible causes and risk factors for developing chronic cough: Allergies, Asthma, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Cystic fibrosis, Gastroesophageal reflux disease, Environmental exposures to dust or chemical irritants, Lung cancer, Postnasal drip, Respiratory tract infections or health conditions, including whooping cough, Sinus problems, Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke (active smokers, former smokers and those exposed to secondhand smoke all carry a higher risk for chronic cough compared to a nonsmoker).
  • #23 Cough – Signs and Symptoms – McMaster Textbook of Internal Medicine
    https://empendium.com/mcmtextbook/chapter/B31.I.1.16.
    3) Chronic cough: Persists for 8 weeks, peaks in patients in their 50s and 60s, and is twice as common in women compared with men. […] In patients with productive cough, perform microbiologic examination of sputum including mycology and mycobacteria. […] In pertussis, or whooping cough, the symptom can last up to 100 days. […] While acute and subacute cough are usually self-limiting or can be treated with antibiotics when needed, investigations and treatment in patients with chronic cough can be difficult. […] Our understanding of the peripheral and central mechanisms causing chronic cough have vastly improved over the last 2 decades, and this has most recently led to the development of oral treatments, such as gefapixant, targeting the purinergic ion channel P2X3, which is activated by adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Blocking this channel has led to a reduction in objective cough frequency and improved quality of life in patients with chronic cough in early studies.
  • #23 Cough – Signs and Symptoms – McMaster Textbook of Internal Medicine
    https://empendium.com/mcmtextbook/chapter/B31.I.1.16.
    Cough is the most common symptom for which patients seek medical attention. […] In most cases acute and subacute coughing can last up to 8 weeks, but in ~12% of the general population chronic cough can become a persistent troublesome symptom lasting 8 weeks. […] This clinical presentation has been recently termed cough hypersensitivity syndrome and reflects an underlying hypersensitivity of the peripheral airway nerves or central nervous system (or both). […] 1) Acute cough: Persists for 3 weeks. The causes are most frequently infection (usually viral upper respiratory tract infection) and bronchitis, or less frequently aspiration, pulmonary embolism, pulmonary edema, or pneumonia. […] 2) Subacute cough: Persists for 3 to 8 weeks. Most frequently caused by viral infections and occasionally by whooping cough.
  • #24 Chronic Cough: Causes and How to Treat It | MedPark Hospital
    https://www.medparkhospital.com/en-US/disease-and-treatment/chronic-cough
    Chronic cough can lead to several complications and other associated symptoms, including: Headaches; Persistent coughing can result in tension headaches or migraines; Dizziness or Vomiting; Intense coughing can trigger dizziness or even nausea and vomiting; Sleep Disturbances; Chronic cough may interfere with sleep, leading to insomnia or poor sleep quality; Fainting or Lightheadedness; Coughing fits can cause dizziness or fainting, especially if they strain the body excessively; Rib Fractures; Severe coughing episodes may cause cracked or fractured ribs due to the intense force exerted during coughing; Urinary Incontinence; Persistent coughing can lead to stress incontinence, causing difficulty controlling urination; Excessive Sweating; Chronic cough may also cause abnormal sweating, especially during coughing spells. […] Persistent coughing can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being, and it is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible to prevent complications.
  • #25 Chronic Cough in Adults (Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment)
    https://patient.info/doctor/chronic-persistent-cough-in-adults-pro
    Cough is a nonspecific reaction to irritation anywhere from the pharynx to the lungs. Cough can be divided into acute self-limiting cough, lasting less than three weeks, or chronic persistent cough, which usually lasts for more than eight weeks. […] Unexplained chronic cough causes significant impairments in quality of life. […] When severe, it causes a major adverse effect in the quality of life with comorbidity such as incontinence, cough syncope and dysphonia, leading to social isolation, depression, and difficulties in relationships. […] Chronic cough is often associated with bronchial hyper-reactivity (bronchial hyper-responsiveness), which can persist in the absence of the initiating cough event. […] The most common causes of chronic cough, other than smoking in adults, are postnasal drip, asthma and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).
  • #26 Chronic Cough | North Bristol NHS Trust
    https://www.nbt.nhs.uk/our-services/a-z-services/respiratory-medicine/respiratory-patient-information/chronic-cough
    Chronic cough is a persistent cough lasting eight weeks or more. Many report it to be a dry cough with an irritation or tickling sensation; this is quite common but can be distressing. […] Chronic cough can lead to other problems including poor sleep, headaches, disordered breathing, exhaustion, depression, stress incontinence, and fear of being out in public. […] When you cough, your vocal cords are struck together forcefully. The vocal cords may become irritated and this can cause more coughing. This can lead to the increased production of mucus which can trigger even more coughing, in a cycle which can be difficult to break. The habit of coughing in response to minor throat irritation may worsen over time. […] It is important to recognise there is no quick fix. You will need to practice the techniques that work best for you regularly when you are not coughing, little and often, so you are ready to use them when you feel a cough coming on. In time you will learn to control the cough before it starts.
  • #27 Cough Symptoms, Types, Treatment and Prevention | Vicks
    https://vicks.com/en-us/symptom/cough
    A cough can be a very uncomfortable symptom to deal with when you have a cold or flu. […] A cough may also develop as a result of a viral infection. This type of cough can be either voluntary or involuntary, to help your lungs get rid of mucus that can accumulate from the immune response fighting the infection. […] A chronic cough can be a sign of more serious health conditions. If you think you may have a chronic cough, please talk to your healthcare provider. […] There are two main types of cough from a cold or flu: wet cough and dry cough. […] A cough that expels mucus (also known as phlegm) from your airways is called a productive, wet, or chesty cough because it serves a function. A cough that does not produce mucus and serves no useful purpose is called a non-productive or dry cough.
  • #27 Cough Symptoms, Types, Treatment and Prevention | Vicks
    https://vicks.com/en-us/symptom/cough
    Dry coughs typically happen when airways are inflamed or irritated. This makes them sensitive, so the threshold to trigger a cough is lowered. […] A cough that persists, comes back, or occurs with fever, rash or persistent headache could be a signal of a more serious issue requiring medical attention. You should consult your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.
  • #28
    https://www.allinahealth.org/healthysetgo/heal/4-types-of-coughs-and-when-to-seek-treatment
    Coughing is your bodys way to clear an irritant from your throat, airway and lungs and can be categorized into four main types: […] A wet cough is a normal symptom of: a cold or flu, asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia. […] Most wet coughs do go away on their own. […] A dry cough can be a symptom of: a cold or flu, allergies, asthma, COVID-19, croup, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritants such as air pollution, dust or smoke, laryngitis, medicines such as ACE inhibitors, sinusitis, sore throat, tonsillitis. […] Most dry coughs do go away on their own. […] A paroxysmal cough is violent and uncontrolled coughing that is exhausting and painful. […] Pertussis or whooping cough is the most common cause of a paroxysmal cough. […] If your symptoms get worse after one to two weeks, and you develop a painful and exhausting cough, you should contact a health care provider.
  • #28
    https://www.allinahealth.org/healthysetgo/heal/4-types-of-coughs-and-when-to-seek-treatment
    Croup is a viral infection that causes irritation and swelling in the upper airway, making it difficult to breathe. […] A croup cough has a distinctive barking sound and can cause a raspy voice and squeaky breathing. […] Talk to your health care provider if your childs croup gets worse or their cough lasts longer than three weeks.
  • #29 Types of coughs: Causes and how to treat them
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327142
    Most people experience a cough at some point in their lives. […] Some coughs can be irritating, making it difficult to talk on the phone or go to work, whereas others can be painful and frightening. […] In most cases, the cough goes away on its own within 3 weeks or less. However, if a dry cough lasts longer than a few weeks, it may be a chronic cough. […] A wet, or productive, cough occurs when a person coughs up mucus or phlegm. […] If a person coughs up blood or blood-stained mucus, they should contact a healthcare professional right away. […] A paroxysmal cough can be exhausting and painful. An individual may find it difficult to breathe while coughing and may even vomit. […] Pertussis, better known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection. […] A person with whooping cough typically has mild cold or flu-like symptoms, followed by an aggressive and painful cough.
  • #30 What is Croup? Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Worry | Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
    https://www.chop.edu/news/health-tip/what-is-croup-symptoms-treatment-and-when-to-worry
    Croup is a common childhood illness that causes swelling in the upper airway. This can cause a change in voice and characteristic croupy cough that sounds like a seal or bark. The infection can be associated with nasal congestion, cough, sore throat and fever. Upper airway swelling can cause children to have just a sore throat, or if more severe, can cause distress when breathing in. This type of difficulty breathing results in a high-pitched creaking or whistling sound when a child inhales (known as stridor) and a harsh cough that sounds like a seals bark. […] Most cases of croup are mild and may just require parental guidance and reassurance. Mild symptoms include occasional barking cough, hoarseness, and stridor only when the child is active or agitated. Symptoms are often worse at night and can wake the child from sleep.
  • #31 Long COVID: Cough | Long-term effects of COVID-19
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/long-term-effects-of-covid-19-long-covid/signs-and-symptoms/long-covid-cough/
    Coughing is the bodys way of protecting the lungs and getting rid of things that irritate them. This is a normal and important function. […] Some infections can leave you with a dry cough because your lungs have been irritated. This should slowly disappear during the course of your recovery. Its not clear how long after coronavirus (COVID-19) you may have a cough and it can be frustrating at times. […] A dry cough is one of the most common coronavirus symptoms, but some people may have a cough with phlegm (thick mucus). […] Speak to your GP practice if: you’ve had a cough for more than 3 weeks, you’re waking up at night coughing, your cough is changing for example coughing up blood or phlegm turning dirty, breathlessness is not improving, you experience shortness of breath, breathing difficulties or chest pain, you’re worried about your symptoms, you’re worried about long COVID symptoms in a child or young person under 18.
  • #32 Diagnosing Chronic Cough | NYU Langone Health
    https://nyulangone.org/conditions/chronic-cough-in-children/diagnosis
    In recent years, doctors at Hassenfeld Childrens Hospital at NYU Langone have begun to diagnose more people with pertussis, or whooping cough, an infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis that leads to uncontrollable, violent coughing. […] Some children have a type of asthma that causes a dry, chronic cough, which is known as cough-variant asthma. Coughing is usually the only symptom in children with this type of asthma. […] Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common cause of chronic cough in adults. However, research shows that although this condition can make a cough worse, it is not among the leading causes of chronic cough in children. […] Lung function tests play a major role in identifying the cause of a chronic cough and can be performed in children as young as age 5. Depending on the possible cause of the cough, our doctors may perform one or more of the following tests:
  • #32 Diagnosing Chronic Cough | NYU Langone Health
    https://nyulangone.org/conditions/chronic-cough-in-children/diagnosis
    In most children, coughing is a common but temporary symptom of an upper respiratory viral or bacterial infection. Usually a cough goes away within a week or two on its own. But in some childreneven in those who are otherwise healthya cough can persist for four weeks or longer, causing significant discomfort for the child and understandable concern for parents. […] The vast majority of chronic cough in children is due to protracted bacterial bronchitis, a prolonged infection in the bronchial tubes that supply oxygen to the lungs. Protracted bacterial bronchitis occurs when bacteria such as Haemophilus influenza and Streptococcus pneumonia colonize the airways. This condition increases mucus production, which can cause a persistent, phlegmy cough for more than four weeks with no other symptoms.
  • #33 Cough – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cough
    A cough in children may be either a normal physiological reflex or due to an underlying cause. […] The most common cause of an acute or subacute cough is a viral respiratory tract infection. […] In adults with a chronic cough, i.e. a cough longer than 8 weeks, more than 90% of cases are due to post-nasal drip, asthma, eosinophilic bronchitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. […] After a respiratory tract infection has cleared, the person may be left with a postinfectious cough. This typically is a dry, non-productive cough that produces no phlegm. Symptoms may include a tightness in the chest, and a tickle in the throat. […] Coughing may also be caused by conditions affecting the lung tissue such as bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, interstitial lung diseases and sarcoidosis. […] Nocturnal cough is associated with heart failure, as the left ventricle doesn’t effectively pump blood forward, resulting in blood being backed up in the pulmonary veins, which in turn causing pulmonary edema and resultant cough.
  • #34 Cough in Children – Children’s Health Issues – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/symptoms-in-infants-and-children/cough-in-children
    Cough is one of the most common reasons parents bring their children to a health care professional. […] The most common cause of acute cough is an upper respiratory infection due to a virus. […] The most common causes of chronic cough are asthma (the most common), gastroesophageal reflux, and postnasal drip (drainage of fluid from the nose down the throat). […] A nighttime cough can be caused by asthma or postnasal drip. […] Coughing at the beginning of sleep and in the morning when waking usually is caused by inflammation of the sinuses (sinusitis). […] Coughing in the middle of the night is more consistent with asthma. […] A barky cough suggests croup or sometimes a cough that is left over from a viral upper respiratory infection. […] A cough that started suddenly in a child with no other symptoms suggests possible inhalation of a foreign body.
  • #35 Chronic Cough – Lung Foundation Australia
    https://lungfoundation.com.au/lung-health/lung-disease/chronic-cough/
    Cough is often a common symptom of viral respiratory infections or the common cold, and will usually go away on its own. […] When a cough becomes chronic, this should be investigated with a GP as it may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. […] A cough that lasts longer than four weeks is considered a chronic cough in children and should be investigated with a GP. […] A cough that lasts longer than eight weeks is considered a chronic cough in adults and should be investigated with a GP. […] Chronic cough may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. […] It is important to recognise that a persistent cough is not normal and should be investigated. […] Chronic respiratory disease is prevalent amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, particularly protracted bacterial bronchitis and bronchiectasis which typically present with chronic wet cough.
  • #36 Baby & Child Coughing: What Baby’s Cough Could Mean | Texas Children’s
    https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/wellness/baby-child-coughing-what-babys-cough-could-mean
    In young children and babies, a dry or hoarse cough could signal croup. Croup is when a portion of a child’s upper airway becomes swollen, typically triggered by a virus. […] If your baby has suffered from a cold for a few days and now has a cough with a raspy, whistling sound; wheezing or “chest congestion,” it could be bronchiolitis, a lung infection common in babies and young children.
  • #37 Chronic Cough: Symptoms, Causes, 5 Types & 5 Prevention Tips
    https://www.medicinenet.com/chronic_cough/article.htm
    A chronic cough may be accompanied by other cold symptoms, including: sore throat, postnasal drip, runny or stuffy nose, hoarseness, heartburn, a bad taste in the mouth, phlegm. […] If chronic cough persists, it is important to be evaluated by a doctor. […] The treatment of chronic cough is directed at the cause. […] In severe cases of chronic cough, a healthcare professional may prescribe codeine or other similar narcotic medications, which are effective as cough suppressants. […] Chronic cough in children is uncommon.
  • #38 That persistent cough may be bronchitis | HonorHealth
    https://www.honorhealth.com/healthy-living/persistent-cough-may-be-bronchitis
    If you’ve been coughing for two weeks or longer, with or without a cold, you may have bronchitis. […] A lingering cough is the most common symptom of bronchitis, according to Yarden Tahan, MD, an HonorHealth family medicine physician. […] Bronchitis can be either acute or chronic, depending on how long you’ve been coughing and what other symptoms arise. […] If you have acute bronchitis, your cough generally lasts fewer than six weeks, with about three weeks being the most common. […] If you have chronic bronchitis, your cough generally lasts longer than six weeks because the airways are repeatedly irritated by one or more of the causes listed above, especially tobacco smoke. […] In addition to persistent coughing, you may have these symptoms: Tightness in your chest, Mucus when you cough, Body aches, Stuffy nose and sinuses, Wheezing, Sore throat, Breathlessness, Headache, Fever and/or chills. […] Bronchitis can create an environment in the lungs that’s hospitable to pneumonia in some cases especially in very young or older patients, or in those who are immunocompromised, have existing lung disease or who smoke.
  • #39 Cough Won’t Go Away? When To See A Doctor | Franciscan Health
    https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/see-doctor-cough
    Bacterial Infections: Bronchitis, pneumonia and other bacterial infections can lead to a persistent cough. […] Allergies: Allergies to pollen, dust mites, pet dander or mold can irritate the airways and trigger a cough. […] Postnasal Drip: Excess mucus from the sinuses draining down the back of the throat can irritate the airways and cause a cough. […] Asthma: Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. […] When our lower airways are inflamed, a cough is our bodys response, Dr. Lundy said. […] Smokers are more likely to develop chronic coughs that are longer-lasting and more severe than non-smokers. […] A lingering cough can also be an early warning sign of lung cancer in long-time smokers.
  • #39 Cough Won’t Go Away? When To See A Doctor | Franciscan Health
    https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/see-doctor-cough
    Recurring coughing can be more than an annoyance; for a cough that won’t go away can be a symptom of lung cancer. […] Some of the common symptoms would be things like a cough that gets persistent, getting worse, said Harsha Ranganath, MD, with Franciscan Physician Network Oncology Hematology Specialists Indianapolis. […] Usually I would say that if the symptoms don’t go away or keep getting worse. These are things that it’s never wrong to get it checked out by your doctor.
  • #40 Bronchitis | Cedars-Sinai
    https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/b/bronchitis.html
    Coughing that starts out dry is often the first sign of acute bronchitis. Small amounts of white mucus may be coughed up if the bronchitis is viral. If the color of the mucus changes to green or yellow, it may be a sign that a bacterial infection has also set in. The cough is usually the last symptom to clear up and may last for weeks. […] Shortness of breath that can be triggered by inhaling cold, outdoor air or smelling strong odors. This happens because the inflamed bronchi may narrow for short periods of time, cutting down the amount of air that enters the lungs. Wheezing, especially after coughing, is common.
  • #41 Cough
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cough/
    A cough will usually clear up on its own within 3 to 4 weeks. […] If you’ve had a cough for more than 3 weeks (persistent cough) […] your cough is very bad or quickly gets worse for example, you have a hacking cough or cannot stop coughing. […] Most coughs are caused by a cold or flu. […] A cough is rarely a sign of something serious like lung cancer.
  • #42 Cough: Causes and Treatment
    https://patient.info/chest-lungs/cough-leaflet
    Coughs lasting under three weeks are most commonly down to viral infections, but when should you seek medical help? […] For coughs due to lower respiratory tract infections, if a bacterial cause is suspected, antibiotics might be prescribed. […] Most acute coughs will start to improve within a week and the cough will usually disappear within three weeks.