What causes your cough? Acute vs chronic cough symptoms and treatments explained

Causes of cough: While an acute cough usually fades within three weeks, a chronic cough can linger for two months or more (Image: Pexels)

For many, it’s a fleeting irritation. For others, it’s a daily battle. Clinicians across both primary and secondary care settings frequently encounter patients troubled by coughs. While an acute cough, usually caused by a simple infection, tends to fade on its own, chronic cough can become more complicated. It can be a sign of underlying respiratory or even gastrointestinal conditions and can affect a person’s quality of life.

Cough is a reflex to clear the airways, presenting as either dry or productive. Common symptoms include throat irritation, chest discomfort, hoarseness, and sometimes fatigue or sleep disturbance. Acute cough often follows infections, while chronic cough may signal asthma, reflux, or persistent respiratory conditions. The dangers include blood in sputum, shortness of breath, weight loss, or prolonged duration.

Cough triggers and treatment

While an acute cough usually fades within three weeks, a chronic cough can linger for two months or more. In order to find the cause, doctors may use simple tests such as chest X-rays, breathing checks (spirometry), or, when necessary, bronchoscopy and CT scans.

Also read | Why you shouldn’t ignore a cough that lasts more than 3 weeks; Pulmonologist explains what it could mean

Common causes of cough

Smoking: Tobacco irritates the airways and keeps the lungs inflamed. Even light smoking can make a cough last for months. Quitting is one of the fastest ways to ease symptoms and heal your lungs.

Asthma: Sometimes a cough is the only sign of asthma. The airways become overly sensitive and narrow, especially at night or after exercise, leading to bouts of dry, nagging cough.

Acid reflux (heartburn): Stomach acid can rise into the throat, especially when lying down. This irritation may trigger a constant urge to cough, even if you don’t feel heartburn.

Medications: Certain drugs, especially those used for high blood pressure (like ACE inhibitors), can cause a dry cough as a side effect. Switching medication under medical advice usually solves the problem.

Also read | Natural Ways to Treat Cough and Cold in Children: Safe Home Remedies That Work, according to Paediatric

How to cure cough

Focused care depends on the cause. Inhaled medicines can calm inflamed airways, while reflux-related cough may improve with acid control and diet changes. Quitting smoking, staying hydrated, and avoiding known irritants often make a real difference.

FAQs on Causes of Cough

1. What are common causes of acute cough?

Acute coughs are usually caused by simple infections and typically resolve on their own within three weeks.

2. How can smoking contribute to chronic cough?

Smoking irritates and inflames the airways, leading to prolonged coughing. Quitting smoking helps alleviate symptoms and promotes lung healing.

3. Can medications cause a cough?

Yes, certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors used for high blood pressure, can cause dry cough as a side effect. Consult your doctor for alternatives.

4. Is cough a symptom of asthma?

Yes, sometimes a persistent dry cough, especially at night or after exercise, can be the only sign of asthma.

5. How can acid reflux lead to a cough?

Stomach acid can rise into the throat, causing irritation and a chronic urge to cough. Managing acid reflux through diet changes and medications can help.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.