A cough is usually a sign that something else is wrong. – A side effect of another problem. Think of what you are suffering – besides your cough.

A persistent cough can cause pain, and in some very server circumstances – fractured lower ribs, or even abdominal or pelvic hernias! – But don’t worry; the later is only in very rare circumstances…

There are two main types of cough:

Productive or Dry

The main purpose of coughing is to remove excess phlegm from the lungs. – Always make sure that you are not coughing up Yellow/Green or Blood in your phlegm. If you are, seek medical advice.

If you are coughing up phlegm, the coughing is referred to as productive – the cough is serving a purpose by removing phlegm.

If no phlegm is being produced – the cough is referred to as a dry cough.

Most coughs are short-term, and will disappear within a short time – the most common cause of a cough is irritation of the throat by mucus particles inhaled from the back of the nose. Colds are also a common course for coughing.

Most coughs do not need treatment, and will clear up after a few days. If your cough is extremely persistent, and continues for more then 2 weeks, you should consult your doctor. You should also consult your doctor if your cough is severe, painful, courses shortness of breath, chest pain, or discoloration/blood in the phlegm.

Severe or persistent coughing:

A cough may be a sign of a serious infection, such as damage to the lungs from pneumonia, acute bronchitis, asthma or even the inhaling of a object, such as an item of food. Continues violent coughing can course Gastroesophageal reflux, a disorder when acidic fluid from the stomach is regurgitated into the oesophagus.