Cough: Causes & When to See a Doctor

Coughing is a reflex that clears mucus and irritants from the airways. A cough may be dry or bring up mucus. It can accompany a cold or persist because of a condition requiring assessment. Duration, timing and associated fever, wheezing or breathlessness help a clinician evaluate it.

Persistent cough can relate to asthma, reflux, smoking, allergies or some medicines. Mucus colour alone does not establish a need for antibiotics. Seek assessment if the cough persists or worsens, and urgent care for difficulty breathing or coughing up blood.

• Common cold and viral respiratory infections.
• Postnasal drip and allergies.
• Asthma or bronchitis.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Smoking or exposure to irritants and smoke.

These are common causes; chronic cough may require medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

Fluids may soothe the throat and help thin mucus. Avoid tobacco smoke and airway irritants.