🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 98 (from laksa167)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa098.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.healthline.com/health/cough\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.healthline.com/health/cough\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cough","crawl_time":1775018003,"first_indexed_time":1506184690,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,healthline!www,\/health\/cough s443","src_root_hash":"11478817528691466898","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Cough: Causes, Emergency Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention","meta_descriptions":["When you cough to clear your throat, it’s often infrequent. Discover other causes of a cough, like asthma. Also, learn about treatment, diagnosis, and more."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"A cough isn’t usually concerning unless it lingers for more than two weeks or you have additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing.\nCoughing is a common reflex that clears your throat of mucus or foreign irritants. While everyone coughs to clear their throat from time to time, a number of conditions can cause more frequent coughing.\nMost episodes of coughing will clear up or at least significantly improve\nwithin 2 weeks\n. Contact a doctor or healthcare professional if your cough doesn’t improve within a few weeks. This could indicate a more serious condition.\nAlso, contact a doctor if you cough up blood or have a “barking” cough.\nDid you know?\nA cough that lasts\nfor less than 3 weeks\nis an acute cough. If a cough lasts between 3 and 8 weeks, improving by the end of that period, it’s considered a subacute cough. A persistent cough that lasts more than 8 weeks is a\nchronic cough\n.\nThere are several possible causes of a cough.\nUrge to clear your throat\nWhen your airways become clogged with\nmucus\nor foreign particles such as smoke or dust, a cough serves as a reflexive reaction that helps clear the particles and make breathing easier.\nUsually, this type of coughing is relatively infrequent, but coughing will increase with exposure to irritants such as smoke.\nViruses\nRespiratory tract infections are usually caused by a virus and may last\nfor 1 to 2 weeks\n. Antiviral medications such as those for the flu are most effective when you take them\nwithin 2 days\nof your symptoms starting.\nSmoking\nSmoking is another common cause of coughing.\nA cough caused by smoking is almost always a chronic cough with a distinctive sound. It’s often known as a\nsmoker’s cough\n.\nAsthma\nA common cause of coughing in young children is asthma.\nAsthmatic coughing\ntypically involves\nwheezing\n, making it easy to identify.\nAsthma exacerbations\nshould be treated with the use of\nmedications\nto open your airway (delivered by an inhaler or a nebulizer). It’s possible for\nchildren with asthma\nto outgrow the condition as they get older.\nMedications\nSome medications will cause coughing, although it’s generally a rare side effect.\nTwo of the more common ACE inhibitors are\nenalapril\n(Vasotec) and\nlisinopril\n(Zestril).\nYour coughing will stop when you quit using the medication.\nOther conditions\nOther conditions that may cause a cough include:\ndamage to your vocal cords\npostnasal drip\nbacterial infections such as\npneumonia\n,\nwhooping cough\n, and\ncroup\nserious conditions such as\npulmonary embolism\nand\nheart failure\nAnother common condition that can cause a chronic cough is\ngastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)\n. In this condition, the contents of your stomach flow back into your esophagus. This backflow stimulates a reflex in your trachea (windpipe), causing you to cough.\nContact a doctor if you have a cough that hasn’t cleared up or improved\nin 2 weeks\n. It may be a symptom of a more serious problem.\nGet immediate medical attention if you develop additional symptoms. Symptoms to watch out for include:\nfever\nchest pain\nheadaches\ndrowsiness\nconfusion\nA cough can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the cause. Healthy adults will mostly be able to treat their coughs with home remedies and self-care.\nHome remedies\nA cough that results from a virus can’t be treated with antibiotics. You can soothe it in the following ways instead:\nKeep hydrated by\ndrinking plenty of water\n.\nElevate your head with extra pillows when sleeping.\nUse cough drops to soothe your throat.\nGargle with\nwarm salt water\nregularly to remove mucus and soothe your throat.\nAvoid irritants, including smoke and dust.\nAdd\nhoney\nor ginger to hot tea to relieve your cough and clear your airway.\nUse\ndecongestant sprays\nto unblock your nose and ease breathing.\nMedical care\nTypically, medical care will involve a doctor looking down your throat, listening to your cough, and asking about any other symptoms.\nIf your cough is likely due to a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe\noral antibiotics\n. They may also prescribe either cough suppressants that contain codeine or expectorant cough syrups.\nIf the doctor can’t determine the cause of your cough, they may order additional tests. These tests could include:\nChest X-ray:\nA\nchest X-ray\nhelps them assess whether your lungs are clear.\nAllergy tests:\nThey’ll perform\nblood and skin tests\nif they suspect an allergic response.\nPhlegm or mucus analysis:\nThese\ntests\ncan reveal signs of bacteria or\ntuberculosis\n.\nIt’s very rare for a cough to be the only symptom of heart problems, but a doctor may request an\nechocardiogram\nto ensure that your heart is functioning correctly and isn’t causing your cough.\nDifficult cases may require these additional tests:\nCT scan:\nA\nCT scan\noffers a more in-depth view of your airways and chest.\nEsophageal pH monitoring:\nIf the CT scan doesn’t reveal the cause, the doctor may refer you to a gastrointestinal or pulmonary (lung) specialist. One of the tests these specialists may perform is\nesophageal pH monitoring\n, which looks for evidence of GERD.\nIn cases where the previous tests are either not possible or extremely unlikely to be successful, or your cough is expected to resolve without treatment, doctors may prescribe cough suppressants.\nIn most cases, a cough will disappear naturally\nwithin 1 or 2 weeks\nafter it first develops. Coughing won’t typically cause any long lasting damage or symptoms.\nIn some cases, a severe cough may cause temporary complications such as:\ntiredness\ndizziness\nheadaches\nfractured ribs\nThese are very rare, and they’ll normally stop when your cough disappears.\nA cough that’s the symptom of a more serious condition is unlikely to go away on its own. If left untreated, the condition could worsen and cause other symptoms.\nInfrequent coughing is necessary to clear your airways. But there are ways you can prevent other coughs.\nQuit smoking\nSmoking is a common contributor to a chronic cough. It can be very difficult to cure a smoker’s cough.\nThere are a wide variety of methods available to help you if you decide to quit smoking, from gadgets to advice groups and support networks. If you quit smoking, you’ll be much less likely to catch colds or experience a chronic cough.\nDietary changes\nIn addition, guidelines from the American College of Chest Physicians suggest that adults with GERD may reduce their cough by avoiding eating\nwithin 3 hours\nof their bedtime.\nIf you need help adjusting your diet, a doctor may be able to advise you or refer you to a dietitian.\nMedical conditions\nIf you can, avoid anyone with a contagious illness such as\nbronchitis\n. This will reduce your chances of coming into contact with germs.\nIf you have existing medical conditions that increase your chances of developing a cough, such as GERD or asthma, ask a doctor about different management strategies. Once you manage your condition, you may find that your cough disappears or becomes much less frequent.","attrs_markdown":"- Health Conditions\n  Health Conditions\n  \n  [All](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/directory\/topics)\n  \n  - [Breast Cancer](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/breast-cancer)\n  - [Cancer Care](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/cancer-care)\n  - [Caregiving for Alzheimer's Disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/alzheimers-disease)\n  - [Chronic Kidney Disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/ckd)\n  - [Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/copd)\n  - [Digestive Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/digestive-health)\n  - [Eye Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/eye-health)\n  - [Heart Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/heart-health)\n  - [Menopause](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/menopause)\n  - [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/mental-health)\n  - [Migraine](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/migraine)\n  - [Multiple Sclerosis (MS)](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/multiple-sclerosis)\n  - 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[Chromosomes, Genetics, and Your Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chromosomes-and-genetics)\n  \n  Top Reads\n  \n  - [Best Multivitamins for Women](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/multivitamins-womens-health)\n  - [Best Multivitamins for Men](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/best-multivitamins-for-men)\n  - [Best Online Therapy Services](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/our-top-10-online-therapy-picks)\n  - [Online Therapy That Takes Insurance](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/online-therapy-that-takes-insurance)\n  - [Buy Ozempic Online](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/buy-ozempic-online)\n  - [Mounjaro Overview](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/drugs\/mounjaro)\n  \n  Video Series\n  \n  - [Youth in Focus](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/video\/youth-in-focus)\n  - [Healthy Harvest](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/nutrition\/video\/healthy-harvest#1)\n  - [Through an Artist's Eye](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/breast-cancer\/metastatic-breast-cancer-artist-eye)\n  - [Future of Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/video\/future-of-health)\n- Connect\n  Find Your Bezzy Community\n  \n  Bezzy communities provide meaningful connections with others living with chronic conditions. Join Bezzy on the web or mobile app.\n  \n  [All](https:\/\/www.bezzy.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=nav-bar-connections)\n  \n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Bezzy-Inflammatory-Bowel-Disease.png) Inflammatory Bowel Disease](https:\/\/www.bezzyibd.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Bezzy-Multiple-Sclerosis.png) Multiple Sclerosis](https:\/\/www.bezzyms.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Bezzy-DEP-Icon-Circle.png) Depression](https:\/\/www.bezzydepression.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bezzy-MIG-Icon-Circle.png) Migraine](https:\/\/www.bezzymigraine.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Bezzy-T2D-Icon-Circle.png) Type 2 Diabetes](https:\/\/www.bezzyt2d.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Bezzy-PsO.png) Psoriasis](https:\/\/www.bezzypsoriasis.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  \n  Follow us on social media\n  \n  Can't get enough? Connect with us for all things health.\n\nSubscribe\n\n[Fitness](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/fitness)\n\n- [Exercise](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/fitness\/exercise)\n- [Cardio](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/fitness\/cardio)\n- [Products](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/fitness\/products)\n- [Strength Training](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/fitness\/strength-training)\n- [Yoga](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/fitness\/yoga)\n- [Holistic Fitness](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/fitness\/holistic-fitness)\n\n# What You Need to Know About Coughing\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Angelica-Balingit-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Angelica Balingit, MD]() — Written by Kati Blake —  [Updated on May 9, 2023]()\n\n- [Causes](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cough#causes)\n- [Emergency symptoms](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cough#emergency-symptoms)\n- [Treatment](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cough#treatment)\n- [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cough#diagnosis)\n- [Complications](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cough#complications)\n- [Prevention](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cough#prevention)\n\nA cough isn’t usually concerning unless it lingers for more than two weeks or you have additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing.\n\nCoughing is a common reflex that clears your throat of mucus or foreign irritants. While everyone coughs to clear their throat from time to time, a number of conditions can cause more frequent coughing.\n\nMost episodes of coughing will clear up or at least significantly improve [within 2 weeks](https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/tools-for-the-public\/conditions-library\/asthma\/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome). Contact a doctor or healthcare professional if your cough doesn’t improve within a few weeks. This could indicate a more serious condition.\n\nAlso, contact a doctor if you cough up blood or have a “barking” cough.\n\n> **Did you know?**\n> \n> A cough that lasts [for less than 3 weeks](https:\/\/bmjopen.bmj.com\/content\/8\/7\/e022950) is an acute cough. If a cough lasts between 3 and 8 weeks, improving by the end of that period, it’s considered a subacute cough. A persistent cough that lasts more than 8 weeks is a [chronic cough](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chronic-cough).\n\n## [What causes coughing?]()\nThere are several possible causes of a cough.\n\n### Urge to clear your throat\nCoughing is a standard way of [clearing your throat](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/clearing-throat).\n\nWhen your airways become clogged with [mucus](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/overproduction-of-mucus-in-throat) or foreign particles such as smoke or dust, a cough serves as a reflexive reaction that helps clear the particles and make breathing easier.\n\nUsually, this type of coughing is relatively infrequent, but coughing will increase with exposure to irritants such as smoke.\n\n### Viruses\nThe most common cause of a cough is a [respiratory tract infection](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/acute-respiratory-disease), such as a [cold](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cold-flu\/cold) or the [flu](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cold-flu\/flu).\n\nCough is associated with [coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/covid-cough-vs-normal-cough), too. A [chronic cough](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chronic-cough) is also one of the hallmark symptoms of [long-haul COVID-19 (long COVID)](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/long-covid-symptoms-that-wont-go-away).\n\nRespiratory tract infections are usually caused by a virus and may last [for 1 to 2 weeks](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/respiratory-tract-infection). Antiviral medications such as those for the flu are most effective when you take them [within 2 days](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/treatment\/whatyoushould.htm) of your symptoms starting.\n\n### Smoking\nSmoking is another common cause of coughing.\n\nA cough caused by smoking is almost always a chronic cough with a distinctive sound. It’s often known as a [smoker’s cough](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/smokers-cough).\n\n### Asthma\nA common cause of coughing in young children is asthma. [Asthmatic coughing](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/asthma\/asthma-cough) typically involves [wheezing](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/wheezing), making it easy to identify.\n\n[Asthma exacerbations](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/asthma\/acute-asthma-exacerbation) should be treated with the use of [medications](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/asthma-medication-and-drugs) to open your airway (delivered by an inhaler or a nebulizer). It’s possible for [children with asthma](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/asthma\/asthma-in-children) to outgrow the condition as they get older.\n\n### Medications\nSome medications will cause coughing, although it’s generally a rare side effect.\n\n[Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/heart-disease\/ACE-inhibitors) can cause coughing. They are often used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions.\n\nTwo of the more common ACE inhibitors are [enalapril](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/drugs\/enalapril-oral-tablet) (Vasotec) and [lisinopril](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/drugs\/lisinopril-oral-tablet) (Zestril).\n\nYour coughing will stop when you quit using the medication.\n\n### Other conditions\nOther conditions that may cause a cough include:\n\n- damage to your vocal cords\n- [postnasal drip](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/postnasal-drip)\n- bacterial infections such as [pneumonia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/pneumonia), [whooping cough](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/pertussis), and [croup](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/croup)\n- serious conditions such as [pulmonary embolism](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/pulmonary-embolus) and [heart failure](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/heart-failure)\n\nAnother common condition that can cause a chronic cough is [gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/gerd\/coughing). In this condition, the contents of your stomach flow back into your esophagus. This backflow stimulates a reflex in your trachea (windpipe), causing you to cough.\n\n## [When is coughing an emergency?]()\nContact a doctor if you have a cough that hasn’t cleared up or improved [in 2 weeks](https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/tools-for-the-public\/conditions-library\/asthma\/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome). It may be a symptom of a more serious problem.\n\nGet immediate medical attention if you develop additional symptoms. Symptoms to watch out for include:\n\n- [fever](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/fever)\n- [chest pain](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/causes-of-chest-pain)\n- [headaches](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/headache)\n- [drowsiness](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/drowsiness)\n- [confusion](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/confusion)\n\n[Coughing up blood](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/coughing-up-blood) or [having difficulty breathing](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/breathing-difficulties) also require immediate emergency medical attention. Call 911 or your local emergency services right away.\n\n## [Which treatments are available for a cough?]()\nA cough can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the cause. Healthy adults will mostly be able to treat their coughs with home remedies and self-care.\n\n### Home remedies\nA cough that results from a virus can’t be treated with antibiotics. You can soothe it in the following ways instead:\n\n- Keep hydrated by [drinking plenty of water](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-much-water-should-I-drink).\n- Elevate your head with extra pillows when sleeping.\n- Use cough drops to soothe your throat.\n- Gargle with [warm salt water](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/salt-water-gargle) regularly to remove mucus and soothe your throat.\n- Avoid irritants, including smoke and dust.\n- Add [honey](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/green-tea-with-honey) or ginger to hot tea to relieve your cough and clear your airway.\n- Use [decongestant sprays](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/general-use\/how-to-use-nasal-spray) to unblock your nose and ease breathing.\n\n[Check out more natural cough remedies here.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/allergies\/best-natural-cough-remedies)\n\n### Medical care\nTypically, medical care will involve a doctor looking down your throat, listening to your cough, and asking about any other symptoms.\n\nIf your cough is likely due to a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe [oral antibiotics](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-do-antibiotics-work). They may also prescribe either cough suppressants that contain codeine or expectorant cough syrups.\n\n## [Which tests can help with diagnosis?]()\nIf the doctor can’t determine the cause of your cough, they may order additional tests. These tests could include:\n\n- **Chest X-ray:** A [chest X-ray](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chest-x-ray) helps them assess whether your lungs are clear.\n- **Allergy tests:** They’ll perform [blood and skin tests](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/allergy-testing) if they suspect an allergic response.\n- **Phlegm or mucus analysis:** These [tests](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/routine-sputum-culture) can reveal signs of bacteria or [tuberculosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/tuberculosis).\n\nIt’s very rare for a cough to be the only symptom of heart problems, but a doctor may request an [echocardiogram](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/echocardiogram) to ensure that your heart is functioning correctly and isn’t causing your cough.\n\nDifficult cases may require these additional tests:\n\n- **CT scan:** A [CT scan](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/ct-scan) offers a more in-depth view of your airways and chest.\n- **Esophageal pH monitoring:** If the CT scan doesn’t reveal the cause, the doctor may refer you to a gastrointestinal or pulmonary (lung) specialist. One of the tests these specialists may perform is [esophageal pH monitoring](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/gerd\/gerd-test), which looks for evidence of GERD.\n\nIn cases where the previous tests are either not possible or extremely unlikely to be successful, or your cough is expected to resolve without treatment, doctors may prescribe cough suppressants.\n\n## [What’s the outcome if a cough is left untreated?]()\nIn most cases, a cough will disappear naturally [within 1 or 2 weeks](https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/tools-for-the-public\/conditions-library\/asthma\/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome) after it first develops. Coughing won’t typically cause any long lasting damage or symptoms.\n\nIn some cases, a severe cough may cause temporary complications such as:\n\n- tiredness\n- [dizziness](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/dizziness)\n- headaches\n- fractured ribs\n\nThese are very rare, and they’ll normally stop when your cough disappears.\n\nA cough that’s the symptom of a more serious condition is unlikely to go away on its own. If left untreated, the condition could worsen and cause other symptoms.\n\n## [Can you prevent a cough?]()\nInfrequent coughing is necessary to clear your airways. But there are ways you can prevent other coughs.\n\n### Quit smoking\nSmoking is a common contributor to a chronic cough. It can be very difficult to cure a smoker’s cough.\n\nThere are a wide variety of methods available to help you if you decide to quit smoking, from gadgets to advice groups and support networks. If you quit smoking, you’ll be much less likely to catch colds or experience a chronic cough.\n\n### Dietary changes\nAccording to a [2018 case study](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5935174), a diet high in [fiber-rich fruits](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/22-high-fiber-foods) may help relieve chronic respiratory symptoms, such as a cough with [phlegm](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/green-phlegm).\n\nIn addition, guidelines from the American College of Chest Physicians suggest that adults with GERD may reduce their cough by avoiding eating [within 3 hours](https:\/\/journal.chestnet.org\/article\/S0012-3692\\(16\\)58893-X\/fulltext) of their bedtime.\n\nIf you need help adjusting your diet, a doctor may be able to advise you or refer you to a dietitian.\n\n### Medical conditions\nIf you can, avoid anyone with a contagious illness such as [bronchitis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/bronchitis). This will reduce your chances of coming into contact with germs.\n\n[Wash your hands frequently](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/washing-hands) and don’t share utensils, towels, or pillows.\n\nIf you have existing medical conditions that increase your chances of developing a cough, such as GERD or asthma, ask a doctor about different management strategies. Once you manage your condition, you may find that your cough disappears or becomes much less frequent.\n\n### How we reviewed this article:\nSources\n\nHistory\n\nHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/process).\n\n- Bergman N, et al. (2018). Diet and lifestyle recommendations for the treatment of chronic cough and chronic disease.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5935174>\n- Chronic cough. (n.d.).  \n  <https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough>\n- Cough in children. (2020).  \n  <https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/tools-for-the-public\/conditions-library\/allergies\/cough-in-children>\n- Hot topic: Tips for managing long-COVID symptoms. (2022).  \n  <https:\/\/www.lung.org\/blog\/managing-long-covid-symptoms>\n- Kahrilas PJ, et al. (2016). Chronic cough due to gastroesophageal reflux in adults: CHEST Guideline and Expert Panel Report.  \n  <https:\/\/journal.chestnet.org\/article\/S0012-3692(16)58893-X\/fulltext>\n- Lätti AM, et al. (2018). Defining the risk factors for acute, subacute and chronic cough: A cross-sectional study in a Finnish adult employee population.  \n  <https:\/\/bmjopen.bmj.com\/content\/8\/7\/e022950>\n- Michaudet C, et al. (2017). Chronic cough: Evaluation and management.  \n  <https:\/\/www.aafp.org\/pubs\/afp\/issues\/2017\/1101\/p575.html>\n- Respiratory tract infections (RTIs). (2021).  \n  <https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/respiratory-tract-infection>\n- What is chronic cough syndrome? (2020).  \n  <https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/tools-for-the-public\/conditions-library\/asthma\/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome>\n- What you should know about flu antiviral drugs. (2022).  \n  <https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/treatment\/whatyoushould.htm>\n\nShare this article\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Angelica-Balingit-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Angelica Balingit, MD]() — Written by Kati Blake —  [Updated on May 9, 2023]()\n\n## related stories\n- [What Does My Type of Cough Mean?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/types-of-coughs?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What Causes a Lingering Cough? Plus 3 Home Remedies to Try](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/cough-that-wont-go-away?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Judge Blocks RFK Jr.’s Child Vaccine Policies, Says They Disregard Science](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/judge-blocks-rfk-jr-child-vaccine-policies?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Pediatricians Release Child Vaccine Recommendations That Break With CDC](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/aap-child-vaccine-recommendations-break-with-cdc?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Pediatricians, Major Medical Groups Ignore RFK Jr.’s New Vaccine Schedule](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/doctors-pediatricians-ignoring-new-vaccine-guidelines?utm_source=ReadNext)\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/additional-information).\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/contact-us)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/privacy-policy)\n- Privacy Settings\n- [Advertising Policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/advertising-policy)\n- [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/directory\/topics)\n\n- [Sitemap](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/sitemap)\n- [Medical Affairs](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n- [Content Integrity](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/content-integrity)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/newsletter-signup)\n- © 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/additional-information).\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/additional-information).\n\n[About](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/?utm_source=healthline.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=about)[Careers](https:\/\/rvohealth.com\/careers)[Advertise with us](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/advertise?utm_source=healthline.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=advertise)\n\nOUR BRANDS\n\n[Healthline](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/)[Medical News Today](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/)[Greatist](https:\/\/greatist.com\/)[Psych Central](https:\/\/psychcentral.com\/)[Bezzy](https:\/\/bezzy.com\/)\n\n![](http:\/\/b.scorecardresearch.com\/p?c1=2&c2=38584006&cv=3.9&cj=1&comscorekw=main)","attrs_readable_markdown":"A cough isn’t usually concerning unless it lingers for more than two weeks or you have additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing.\n\nCoughing is a common reflex that clears your throat of mucus or foreign irritants. While everyone coughs to clear their throat from time to time, a number of conditions can cause more frequent coughing.\n\nMost episodes of coughing will clear up or at least significantly improve [within 2 weeks](https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/tools-for-the-public\/conditions-library\/asthma\/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome). Contact a doctor or healthcare professional if your cough doesn’t improve within a few weeks. This could indicate a more serious condition.\n\nAlso, contact a doctor if you cough up blood or have a “barking” cough.\n\n> **Did you know?**\n> \n> A cough that lasts [for less than 3 weeks](https:\/\/bmjopen.bmj.com\/content\/8\/7\/e022950) is an acute cough. If a cough lasts between 3 and 8 weeks, improving by the end of that period, it’s considered a subacute cough. A persistent cough that lasts more than 8 weeks is a [chronic cough](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chronic-cough).\n\nThere are several possible causes of a cough.\n\nUrge to clear your throat\n\nWhen your airways become clogged with [mucus](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/overproduction-of-mucus-in-throat) or foreign particles such as smoke or dust, a cough serves as a reflexive reaction that helps clear the particles and make breathing easier.\n\nUsually, this type of coughing is relatively infrequent, but coughing will increase with exposure to irritants such as smoke.\n\nViruses\n\nRespiratory tract infections are usually caused by a virus and may last [for 1 to 2 weeks](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/respiratory-tract-infection). Antiviral medications such as those for the flu are most effective when you take them [within 2 days](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/treatment\/whatyoushould.htm) of your symptoms starting.\n\nSmoking\n\nSmoking is another common cause of coughing.\n\nA cough caused by smoking is almost always a chronic cough with a distinctive sound. It’s often known as a [smoker’s cough](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/smokers-cough).\n\nAsthma\n\nA common cause of coughing in young children is asthma. [Asthmatic coughing](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/asthma\/asthma-cough) typically involves [wheezing](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/wheezing), making it easy to identify.\n\n[Asthma exacerbations](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/asthma\/acute-asthma-exacerbation) should be treated with the use of [medications](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/asthma-medication-and-drugs) to open your airway (delivered by an inhaler or a nebulizer). It’s possible for [children with asthma](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/asthma\/asthma-in-children) to outgrow the condition as they get older.\n\nMedications\n\nSome medications will cause coughing, although it’s generally a rare side effect.\n\nTwo of the more common ACE inhibitors are [enalapril](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/drugs\/enalapril-oral-tablet) (Vasotec) and [lisinopril](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/drugs\/lisinopril-oral-tablet) (Zestril).\n\nYour coughing will stop when you quit using the medication.\n\nOther conditions\n\nOther conditions that may cause a cough include:\n\n- damage to your vocal cords\n- [postnasal drip](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/postnasal-drip)\n- bacterial infections such as [pneumonia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/pneumonia), [whooping cough](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/pertussis), and [croup](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/croup)\n- serious conditions such as [pulmonary embolism](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/pulmonary-embolus) and [heart failure](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/heart-failure)\n\nAnother common condition that can cause a chronic cough is [gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/gerd\/coughing). In this condition, the contents of your stomach flow back into your esophagus. This backflow stimulates a reflex in your trachea (windpipe), causing you to cough.\n\nContact a doctor if you have a cough that hasn’t cleared up or improved [in 2 weeks](https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/tools-for-the-public\/conditions-library\/asthma\/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome). It may be a symptom of a more serious problem.\n\nGet immediate medical attention if you develop additional symptoms. Symptoms to watch out for include:\n\n- [fever](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/fever)\n- [chest pain](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/causes-of-chest-pain)\n- [headaches](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/headache)\n- [drowsiness](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/drowsiness)\n- [confusion](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/confusion)\n\nA cough can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the cause. Healthy adults will mostly be able to treat their coughs with home remedies and self-care.\n\nHome remedies\n\nA cough that results from a virus can’t be treated with antibiotics. You can soothe it in the following ways instead:\n\n- Keep hydrated by [drinking plenty of water](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-much-water-should-I-drink).\n- Elevate your head with extra pillows when sleeping.\n- Use cough drops to soothe your throat.\n- Gargle with [warm salt water](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/salt-water-gargle) regularly to remove mucus and soothe your throat.\n- Avoid irritants, including smoke and dust.\n- Add [honey](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/green-tea-with-honey) or ginger to hot tea to relieve your cough and clear your airway.\n- Use [decongestant sprays](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/general-use\/how-to-use-nasal-spray) to unblock your nose and ease breathing.\n\nMedical care\n\nTypically, medical care will involve a doctor looking down your throat, listening to your cough, and asking about any other symptoms.\n\nIf your cough is likely due to a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe [oral antibiotics](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-do-antibiotics-work). They may also prescribe either cough suppressants that contain codeine or expectorant cough syrups.\n\nIf the doctor can’t determine the cause of your cough, they may order additional tests. These tests could include:\n\n- **Chest X-ray:** A [chest X-ray](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chest-x-ray) helps them assess whether your lungs are clear.\n- **Allergy tests:** They’ll perform [blood and skin tests](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/allergy-testing) if they suspect an allergic response.\n- **Phlegm or mucus analysis:** These [tests](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/routine-sputum-culture) can reveal signs of bacteria or [tuberculosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/tuberculosis).\n\nIt’s very rare for a cough to be the only symptom of heart problems, but a doctor may request an [echocardiogram](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/echocardiogram) to ensure that your heart is functioning correctly and isn’t causing your cough.\n\nDifficult cases may require these additional tests:\n\n- **CT scan:** A [CT scan](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/ct-scan) offers a more in-depth view of your airways and chest.\n- **Esophageal pH monitoring:** If the CT scan doesn’t reveal the cause, the doctor may refer you to a gastrointestinal or pulmonary (lung) specialist. One of the tests these specialists may perform is [esophageal pH monitoring](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/gerd\/gerd-test), which looks for evidence of GERD.\n\nIn cases where the previous tests are either not possible or extremely unlikely to be successful, or your cough is expected to resolve without treatment, doctors may prescribe cough suppressants.\n\nIn most cases, a cough will disappear naturally [within 1 or 2 weeks](https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/tools-for-the-public\/conditions-library\/asthma\/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome) after it first develops. Coughing won’t typically cause any long lasting damage or symptoms.\n\nIn some cases, a severe cough may cause temporary complications such as:\n\n- tiredness\n- [dizziness](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/dizziness)\n- headaches\n- fractured ribs\n\nThese are very rare, and they’ll normally stop when your cough disappears.\n\nA cough that’s the symptom of a more serious condition is unlikely to go away on its own. If left untreated, the condition could worsen and cause other symptoms.\n\nInfrequent coughing is necessary to clear your airways. But there are ways you can prevent other coughs.\n\nQuit smoking\n\nSmoking is a common contributor to a chronic cough. It can be very difficult to cure a smoker’s cough.\n\nThere are a wide variety of methods available to help you if you decide to quit smoking, from gadgets to advice groups and support networks. If you quit smoking, you’ll be much less likely to catch colds or experience a chronic cough.\n\nDietary changes\n\nIn addition, guidelines from the American College of Chest Physicians suggest that adults with GERD may reduce their cough by avoiding eating [within 3 hours](https:\/\/journal.chestnet.org\/article\/S0012-3692\\(16\\)58893-X\/fulltext) of their bedtime.\n\nIf you need help adjusting your diet, a doctor may be able to advise you or refer you to a dietitian.\n\nMedical conditions\n\nIf you can, avoid anyone with a contagious illness such as [bronchitis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/bronchitis). This will reduce your chances of coming into contact with germs.\n\nIf you have existing medical conditions that increase your chances of developing a cough, such as GERD or asthma, ask a doctor about different management strategies. Once you manage your condition, you may find that your cough disappears or becomes much less frequent.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Description	When you cough to clear your throat, it’s often infrequent. Discover other causes of a cough, like asthma. Also, learn about treatment, diagnosis, and more.
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Boilerpipe Text	A cough isn’t usually concerning unless it lingers for more than two weeks or you have additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing. Coughing is a common reflex that clears your throat of mucus or foreign irritants. While everyone coughs to clear their throat from time to time, a number of conditions can cause more frequent coughing. Most episodes of coughing will clear up or at least significantly improve within 2 weeks . Contact a doctor or healthcare professional if your cough doesn’t improve within a few weeks. This could indicate a more serious condition. Also, contact a doctor if you cough up blood or have a “barking” cough. Did you know? A cough that lasts for less than 3 weeks is an acute cough. If a cough lasts between 3 and 8 weeks, improving by the end of that period, it’s considered a subacute cough. A persistent cough that lasts more than 8 weeks is a chronic cough . There are several possible causes of a cough. Urge to clear your throat When your airways become clogged with mucus or foreign particles such as smoke or dust, a cough serves as a reflexive reaction that helps clear the particles and make breathing easier. Usually, this type of coughing is relatively infrequent, but coughing will increase with exposure to irritants such as smoke. Viruses Respiratory tract infections are usually caused by a virus and may last for 1 to 2 weeks . Antiviral medications such as those for the flu are most effective when you take them within 2 days of your symptoms starting. Smoking Smoking is another common cause of coughing. A cough caused by smoking is almost always a chronic cough with a distinctive sound. It’s often known as a smoker’s cough . Asthma A common cause of coughing in young children is asthma. Asthmatic coughing typically involves wheezing , making it easy to identify. Asthma exacerbations should be treated with the use of medications to open your airway (delivered by an inhaler or a nebulizer). It’s possible for children with asthma to outgrow the condition as they get older. Medications Some medications will cause coughing, although it’s generally a rare side effect. Two of the more common ACE inhibitors are enalapril (Vasotec) and lisinopril (Zestril). Your coughing will stop when you quit using the medication. Other conditions Other conditions that may cause a cough include: damage to your vocal cords postnasal drip bacterial infections such as pneumonia , whooping cough , and croup serious conditions such as pulmonary embolism and heart failure Another common condition that can cause a chronic cough is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) . In this condition, the contents of your stomach flow back into your esophagus. This backflow stimulates a reflex in your trachea (windpipe), causing you to cough. Contact a doctor if you have a cough that hasn’t cleared up or improved in 2 weeks . It may be a symptom of a more serious problem. Get immediate medical attention if you develop additional symptoms. Symptoms to watch out for include: fever chest pain headaches drowsiness confusion A cough can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the cause. Healthy adults will mostly be able to treat their coughs with home remedies and self-care. Home remedies A cough that results from a virus can’t be treated with antibiotics. You can soothe it in the following ways instead: Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water . Elevate your head with extra pillows when sleeping. Use cough drops to soothe your throat. Gargle with warm salt water regularly to remove mucus and soothe your throat. Avoid irritants, including smoke and dust. Add honey or ginger to hot tea to relieve your cough and clear your airway. Use decongestant sprays to unblock your nose and ease breathing. Medical care Typically, medical care will involve a doctor looking down your throat, listening to your cough, and asking about any other symptoms. If your cough is likely due to a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe oral antibiotics . They may also prescribe either cough suppressants that contain codeine or expectorant cough syrups. If the doctor can’t determine the cause of your cough, they may order additional tests. These tests could include: Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray helps them assess whether your lungs are clear. Allergy tests: They’ll perform blood and skin tests if they suspect an allergic response. Phlegm or mucus analysis: These tests can reveal signs of bacteria or tuberculosis . It’s very rare for a cough to be the only symptom of heart problems, but a doctor may request an echocardiogram to ensure that your heart is functioning correctly and isn’t causing your cough. Difficult cases may require these additional tests: CT scan: A CT scan offers a more in-depth view of your airways and chest. Esophageal pH monitoring: If the CT scan doesn’t reveal the cause, the doctor may refer you to a gastrointestinal or pulmonary (lung) specialist. One of the tests these specialists may perform is esophageal pH monitoring , which looks for evidence of GERD. In cases where the previous tests are either not possible or extremely unlikely to be successful, or your cough is expected to resolve without treatment, doctors may prescribe cough suppressants. In most cases, a cough will disappear naturally within 1 or 2 weeks after it first develops. Coughing won’t typically cause any long lasting damage or symptoms. In some cases, a severe cough may cause temporary complications such as: tiredness dizziness headaches fractured ribs These are very rare, and they’ll normally stop when your cough disappears. A cough that’s the symptom of a more serious condition is unlikely to go away on its own. If left untreated, the condition could worsen and cause other symptoms. Infrequent coughing is necessary to clear your airways. But there are ways you can prevent other coughs. Quit smoking Smoking is a common contributor to a chronic cough. It can be very difficult to cure a smoker’s cough. There are a wide variety of methods available to help you if you decide to quit smoking, from gadgets to advice groups and support networks. If you quit smoking, you’ll be much less likely to catch colds or experience a chronic cough. Dietary changes In addition, guidelines from the American College of Chest Physicians suggest that adults with GERD may reduce their cough by avoiding eating within 3 hours of their bedtime. If you need help adjusting your diet, a doctor may be able to advise you or refer you to a dietitian. Medical conditions If you can, avoid anyone with a contagious illness such as bronchitis . This will reduce your chances of coming into contact with germs. If you have existing medical conditions that increase your chances of developing a cough, such as GERD or asthma, ask a doctor about different management strategies. Once you manage your condition, you may find that your cough disappears or becomes much less frequent.
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Connect with us for all things health. Subscribe [Fitness](https://www.healthline.com/fitness) - [Exercise](https://www.healthline.com/fitness/exercise) - [Cardio](https://www.healthline.com/fitness/cardio) - [Products](https://www.healthline.com/fitness/products) - [Strength Training](https://www.healthline.com/fitness/strength-training) - [Yoga](https://www.healthline.com/fitness/yoga) - [Holistic Fitness](https://www.healthline.com/fitness/holistic-fitness) # What You Need to Know About Coughing ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Angelica-Balingit-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Angelica Balingit, MD]() — Written by Kati Blake — [Updated on May 9, 2023]() - [Causes](https://www.healthline.com/health/cough#causes) - [Emergency symptoms](https://www.healthline.com/health/cough#emergency-symptoms) - [Treatment](https://www.healthline.com/health/cough#treatment) - [Diagnosis](https://www.healthline.com/health/cough#diagnosis) - [Complications](https://www.healthline.com/health/cough#complications) - [Prevention](https://www.healthline.com/health/cough#prevention) A cough isn’t usually concerning unless it lingers for more than two weeks or you have additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing. Coughing is a common reflex that clears your throat of mucus or foreign irritants. While everyone coughs to clear their throat from time to time, a number of conditions can cause more frequent coughing. Most episodes of coughing will clear up or at least significantly improve [within 2 weeks](https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/asthma/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome). Contact a doctor or healthcare professional if your cough doesn’t improve within a few weeks. This could indicate a more serious condition. Also, contact a doctor if you cough up blood or have a “barking” cough. > Did you know? > > A cough that lasts [for less than 3 weeks](https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/8/7/e022950) is an acute cough. If a cough lasts between 3 and 8 weeks, improving by the end of that period, it’s considered a subacute cough. A persistent cough that lasts more than 8 weeks is a [chronic cough](https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-cough). ## [What causes coughing?]() There are several possible causes of a cough. ### Urge to clear your throat Coughing is a standard way of [clearing your throat](https://www.healthline.com/health/clearing-throat). When your airways become clogged with [mucus](https://www.healthline.com/health/overproduction-of-mucus-in-throat) or foreign particles such as smoke or dust, a cough serves as a reflexive reaction that helps clear the particles and make breathing easier. Usually, this type of coughing is relatively infrequent, but coughing will increase with exposure to irritants such as smoke. ### Viruses The most common cause of a cough is a [respiratory tract infection](https://www.healthline.com/health/acute-respiratory-disease), such as a [cold](https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/cold) or the [flu](https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/flu). Cough is associated with [coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)](https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-cough-vs-normal-cough), too. A [chronic cough](https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-cough) is also one of the hallmark symptoms of [long-haul COVID-19 (long COVID)](https://www.healthline.com/health/long-covid-symptoms-that-wont-go-away). Respiratory tract infections are usually caused by a virus and may last [for 1 to 2 weeks](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/respiratory-tract-infection). Antiviral medications such as those for the flu are most effective when you take them [within 2 days](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/whatyoushould.htm) of your symptoms starting. ### Smoking Smoking is another common cause of coughing. A cough caused by smoking is almost always a chronic cough with a distinctive sound. It’s often known as a [smoker’s cough](https://www.healthline.com/health/smokers-cough). ### Asthma A common cause of coughing in young children is asthma. [Asthmatic coughing](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/asthma-cough) typically involves [wheezing](https://www.healthline.com/health/wheezing), making it easy to identify. [Asthma exacerbations](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/acute-asthma-exacerbation) should be treated with the use of [medications](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma-medication-and-drugs) to open your airway (delivered by an inhaler or a nebulizer). It’s possible for [children with asthma](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/asthma-in-children) to outgrow the condition as they get older. ### Medications Some medications will cause coughing, although it’s generally a rare side effect. [Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors](https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-disease/ACE-inhibitors) can cause coughing. They are often used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions. Two of the more common ACE inhibitors are [enalapril](https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/enalapril-oral-tablet) (Vasotec) and [lisinopril](https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/lisinopril-oral-tablet) (Zestril). Your coughing will stop when you quit using the medication. ### Other conditions Other conditions that may cause a cough include: - damage to your vocal cords - [postnasal drip](https://www.healthline.com/health/postnasal-drip) - bacterial infections such as [pneumonia](https://www.healthline.com/health/pneumonia), [whooping cough](https://www.healthline.com/health/pertussis), and [croup](https://www.healthline.com/health/croup) - serious conditions such as [pulmonary embolism](https://www.healthline.com/health/pulmonary-embolus) and [heart failure](https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-failure) Another common condition that can cause a chronic cough is [gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)](https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/coughing). In this condition, the contents of your stomach flow back into your esophagus. This backflow stimulates a reflex in your trachea (windpipe), causing you to cough. ## [When is coughing an emergency?]() Contact a doctor if you have a cough that hasn’t cleared up or improved [in 2 weeks](https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/asthma/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome). It may be a symptom of a more serious problem. Get immediate medical attention if you develop additional symptoms. Symptoms to watch out for include: - [fever](https://www.healthline.com/health/fever) - [chest pain](https://www.healthline.com/health/causes-of-chest-pain) - [headaches](https://www.healthline.com/health/headache) - [drowsiness](https://www.healthline.com/health/drowsiness) - [confusion](https://www.healthline.com/health/confusion) [Coughing up blood](https://www.healthline.com/health/coughing-up-blood) or [having difficulty breathing](https://www.healthline.com/health/breathing-difficulties) also require immediate emergency medical attention. Call 911 or your local emergency services right away. ## [Which treatments are available for a cough?]() A cough can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the cause. Healthy adults will mostly be able to treat their coughs with home remedies and self-care. ### Home remedies A cough that results from a virus can’t be treated with antibiotics. You can soothe it in the following ways instead: - Keep hydrated by [drinking plenty of water](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-much-water-should-I-drink). - Elevate your head with extra pillows when sleeping. - Use cough drops to soothe your throat. - Gargle with [warm salt water](https://www.healthline.com/health/salt-water-gargle) regularly to remove mucus and soothe your throat. - Avoid irritants, including smoke and dust. - Add [honey](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/green-tea-with-honey) or ginger to hot tea to relieve your cough and clear your airway. - Use [decongestant sprays](https://www.healthline.com/health/general-use/how-to-use-nasal-spray) to unblock your nose and ease breathing. [Check out more natural cough remedies here.](https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/best-natural-cough-remedies) ### Medical care Typically, medical care will involve a doctor looking down your throat, listening to your cough, and asking about any other symptoms. If your cough is likely due to a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe [oral antibiotics](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-do-antibiotics-work). They may also prescribe either cough suppressants that contain codeine or expectorant cough syrups. ## [Which tests can help with diagnosis?]() If the doctor can’t determine the cause of your cough, they may order additional tests. These tests could include: - Chest X-ray: A [chest X-ray](https://www.healthline.com/health/chest-x-ray) helps them assess whether your lungs are clear. - Allergy tests: They’ll perform [blood and skin tests](https://www.healthline.com/health/allergy-testing) if they suspect an allergic response. - Phlegm or mucus analysis: These [tests](https://www.healthline.com/health/routine-sputum-culture) can reveal signs of bacteria or [tuberculosis](https://www.healthline.com/health/tuberculosis). It’s very rare for a cough to be the only symptom of heart problems, but a doctor may request an [echocardiogram](https://www.healthline.com/health/echocardiogram) to ensure that your heart is functioning correctly and isn’t causing your cough. Difficult cases may require these additional tests: - CT scan: A [CT scan](https://www.healthline.com/health/ct-scan) offers a more in-depth view of your airways and chest. - Esophageal pH monitoring: If the CT scan doesn’t reveal the cause, the doctor may refer you to a gastrointestinal or pulmonary (lung) specialist. One of the tests these specialists may perform is [esophageal pH monitoring](https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/gerd-test), which looks for evidence of GERD. In cases where the previous tests are either not possible or extremely unlikely to be successful, or your cough is expected to resolve without treatment, doctors may prescribe cough suppressants. ## [What’s the outcome if a cough is left untreated?]() In most cases, a cough will disappear naturally [within 1 or 2 weeks](https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/asthma/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome) after it first develops. Coughing won’t typically cause any long lasting damage or symptoms. In some cases, a severe cough may cause temporary complications such as: - tiredness - [dizziness](https://www.healthline.com/health/dizziness) - headaches - fractured ribs These are very rare, and they’ll normally stop when your cough disappears. A cough that’s the symptom of a more serious condition is unlikely to go away on its own. If left untreated, the condition could worsen and cause other symptoms. ## [Can you prevent a cough?]() Infrequent coughing is necessary to clear your airways. But there are ways you can prevent other coughs. ### Quit smoking Smoking is a common contributor to a chronic cough. It can be very difficult to cure a smoker’s cough. There are a wide variety of methods available to help you if you decide to quit smoking, from gadgets to advice groups and support networks. If you quit smoking, you’ll be much less likely to catch colds or experience a chronic cough. ### Dietary changes According to a [2018 case study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5935174), a diet high in [fiber-rich fruits](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/22-high-fiber-foods) may help relieve chronic respiratory symptoms, such as a cough with [phlegm](https://www.healthline.com/health/green-phlegm). In addition, guidelines from the American College of Chest Physicians suggest that adults with GERD may reduce their cough by avoiding eating [within 3 hours](https://journal.chestnet.org/article/S0012-3692\(16\)58893-X/fulltext) of their bedtime. If you need help adjusting your diet, a doctor may be able to advise you or refer you to a dietitian. ### Medical conditions If you can, avoid anyone with a contagious illness such as [bronchitis](https://www.healthline.com/health/bronchitis). This will reduce your chances of coming into contact with germs. [Wash your hands frequently](https://www.healthline.com/health/washing-hands) and don’t share utensils, towels, or pillows. If you have existing medical conditions that increase your chances of developing a cough, such as GERD or asthma, ask a doctor about different management strategies. Once you manage your condition, you may find that your cough disappears or becomes much less frequent. ### How we reviewed this article: Sources History Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.healthline.com/about/process). - Bergman N, et al. (2018). Diet and lifestyle recommendations for the treatment of chronic cough and chronic disease. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5935174> - Chronic cough. (n.d.). <https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough> - Cough in children. (2020). <https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/cough-in-children> - Hot topic: Tips for managing long-COVID symptoms. (2022). <https://www.lung.org/blog/managing-long-covid-symptoms> - Kahrilas PJ, et al. (2016). Chronic cough due to gastroesophageal reflux in adults: CHEST Guideline and Expert Panel Report. <https://journal.chestnet.org/article/S0012-3692(16)58893-X/fulltext> - Lätti AM, et al. (2018). Defining the risk factors for acute, subacute and chronic cough: A cross-sectional study in a Finnish adult employee population. <https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/8/7/e022950> - Michaudet C, et al. (2017). Chronic cough: Evaluation and management. <https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2017/1101/p575.html> - Respiratory tract infections (RTIs). (2021). <https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/respiratory-tract-infection> - What is chronic cough syndrome? (2020). <https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/asthma/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome> - What you should know about flu antiviral drugs. (2022). <https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/whatyoushould.htm> Share this article ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Angelica-Balingit-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Angelica Balingit, MD]() — Written by Kati Blake — [Updated on May 9, 2023]() ## related stories - [What Does My Type of Cough Mean?](https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-coughs?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What Causes a Lingering Cough? Plus 3 Home Remedies to Try](https://www.healthline.com/health/cough-that-wont-go-away?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Judge Blocks RFK Jr.’s Child Vaccine Policies, Says They Disregard Science](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/judge-blocks-rfk-jr-child-vaccine-policies?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Pediatricians Release Child Vaccine Recommendations That Break With CDC](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/aap-child-vaccine-recommendations-break-with-cdc?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Pediatricians, Major Medical Groups Ignore RFK Jr.’s New Vaccine Schedule](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/doctors-pediatricians-ignoring-new-vaccine-guidelines?utm_source=ReadNext) © 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 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Readable Markdown	A cough isn’t usually concerning unless it lingers for more than two weeks or you have additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing. Coughing is a common reflex that clears your throat of mucus or foreign irritants. While everyone coughs to clear their throat from time to time, a number of conditions can cause more frequent coughing. Most episodes of coughing will clear up or at least significantly improve [within 2 weeks](https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/asthma/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome). Contact a doctor or healthcare professional if your cough doesn’t improve within a few weeks. This could indicate a more serious condition. Also, contact a doctor if you cough up blood or have a “barking” cough. > Did you know? > > A cough that lasts [for less than 3 weeks](https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/8/7/e022950) is an acute cough. If a cough lasts between 3 and 8 weeks, improving by the end of that period, it’s considered a subacute cough. A persistent cough that lasts more than 8 weeks is a [chronic cough](https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-cough). There are several possible causes of a cough. Urge to clear your throat When your airways become clogged with [mucus](https://www.healthline.com/health/overproduction-of-mucus-in-throat) or foreign particles such as smoke or dust, a cough serves as a reflexive reaction that helps clear the particles and make breathing easier. Usually, this type of coughing is relatively infrequent, but coughing will increase with exposure to irritants such as smoke. Viruses Respiratory tract infections are usually caused by a virus and may last [for 1 to 2 weeks](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/respiratory-tract-infection). Antiviral medications such as those for the flu are most effective when you take them [within 2 days](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/whatyoushould.htm) of your symptoms starting. Smoking Smoking is another common cause of coughing. A cough caused by smoking is almost always a chronic cough with a distinctive sound. It’s often known as a [smoker’s cough](https://www.healthline.com/health/smokers-cough). Asthma A common cause of coughing in young children is asthma. [Asthmatic coughing](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/asthma-cough) typically involves [wheezing](https://www.healthline.com/health/wheezing), making it easy to identify. [Asthma exacerbations](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/acute-asthma-exacerbation) should be treated with the use of [medications](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma-medication-and-drugs) to open your airway (delivered by an inhaler or a nebulizer). It’s possible for [children with asthma](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/asthma-in-children) to outgrow the condition as they get older. Medications Some medications will cause coughing, although it’s generally a rare side effect. Two of the more common ACE inhibitors are [enalapril](https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/enalapril-oral-tablet) (Vasotec) and [lisinopril](https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/lisinopril-oral-tablet) (Zestril). Your coughing will stop when you quit using the medication. Other conditions Other conditions that may cause a cough include: - damage to your vocal cords - [postnasal drip](https://www.healthline.com/health/postnasal-drip) - bacterial infections such as [pneumonia](https://www.healthline.com/health/pneumonia), [whooping cough](https://www.healthline.com/health/pertussis), and [croup](https://www.healthline.com/health/croup) - serious conditions such as [pulmonary embolism](https://www.healthline.com/health/pulmonary-embolus) and [heart failure](https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-failure) Another common condition that can cause a chronic cough is [gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)](https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/coughing). In this condition, the contents of your stomach flow back into your esophagus. This backflow stimulates a reflex in your trachea (windpipe), causing you to cough. Contact a doctor if you have a cough that hasn’t cleared up or improved [in 2 weeks](https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/asthma/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome). It may be a symptom of a more serious problem. Get immediate medical attention if you develop additional symptoms. Symptoms to watch out for include: - [fever](https://www.healthline.com/health/fever) - [chest pain](https://www.healthline.com/health/causes-of-chest-pain) - [headaches](https://www.healthline.com/health/headache) - [drowsiness](https://www.healthline.com/health/drowsiness) - [confusion](https://www.healthline.com/health/confusion) A cough can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the cause. Healthy adults will mostly be able to treat their coughs with home remedies and self-care. Home remedies A cough that results from a virus can’t be treated with antibiotics. You can soothe it in the following ways instead: - Keep hydrated by [drinking plenty of water](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-much-water-should-I-drink). - Elevate your head with extra pillows when sleeping. - Use cough drops to soothe your throat. - Gargle with [warm salt water](https://www.healthline.com/health/salt-water-gargle) regularly to remove mucus and soothe your throat. - Avoid irritants, including smoke and dust. - Add [honey](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/green-tea-with-honey) or ginger to hot tea to relieve your cough and clear your airway. - Use [decongestant sprays](https://www.healthline.com/health/general-use/how-to-use-nasal-spray) to unblock your nose and ease breathing. Medical care Typically, medical care will involve a doctor looking down your throat, listening to your cough, and asking about any other symptoms. If your cough is likely due to a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe [oral antibiotics](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-do-antibiotics-work). They may also prescribe either cough suppressants that contain codeine or expectorant cough syrups. If the doctor can’t determine the cause of your cough, they may order additional tests. These tests could include: - Chest X-ray: A [chest X-ray](https://www.healthline.com/health/chest-x-ray) helps them assess whether your lungs are clear. - Allergy tests: They’ll perform [blood and skin tests](https://www.healthline.com/health/allergy-testing) if they suspect an allergic response. - Phlegm or mucus analysis: These [tests](https://www.healthline.com/health/routine-sputum-culture) can reveal signs of bacteria or [tuberculosis](https://www.healthline.com/health/tuberculosis). It’s very rare for a cough to be the only symptom of heart problems, but a doctor may request an [echocardiogram](https://www.healthline.com/health/echocardiogram) to ensure that your heart is functioning correctly and isn’t causing your cough. Difficult cases may require these additional tests: - CT scan: A [CT scan](https://www.healthline.com/health/ct-scan) offers a more in-depth view of your airways and chest. - Esophageal pH monitoring: If the CT scan doesn’t reveal the cause, the doctor may refer you to a gastrointestinal or pulmonary (lung) specialist. One of the tests these specialists may perform is [esophageal pH monitoring](https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/gerd-test), which looks for evidence of GERD. In cases where the previous tests are either not possible or extremely unlikely to be successful, or your cough is expected to resolve without treatment, doctors may prescribe cough suppressants. In most cases, a cough will disappear naturally [within 1 or 2 weeks](https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/asthma/what-is-chronic-cough-syndrome) after it first develops. Coughing won’t typically cause any long lasting damage or symptoms. In some cases, a severe cough may cause temporary complications such as: - tiredness - [dizziness](https://www.healthline.com/health/dizziness) - headaches - fractured ribs These are very rare, and they’ll normally stop when your cough disappears. A cough that’s the symptom of a more serious condition is unlikely to go away on its own. If left untreated, the condition could worsen and cause other symptoms. Infrequent coughing is necessary to clear your airways. But there are ways you can prevent other coughs. Quit smoking Smoking is a common contributor to a chronic cough. It can be very difficult to cure a smoker’s cough. There are a wide variety of methods available to help you if you decide to quit smoking, from gadgets to advice groups and support networks. If you quit smoking, you’ll be much less likely to catch colds or experience a chronic cough. Dietary changes In addition, guidelines from the American College of Chest Physicians suggest that adults with GERD may reduce their cough by avoiding eating [within 3 hours](https://journal.chestnet.org/article/S0012-3692\(16\)58893-X/fulltext) of their bedtime. If you need help adjusting your diet, a doctor may be able to advise you or refer you to a dietitian. Medical conditions If you can, avoid anyone with a contagious illness such as [bronchitis](https://www.healthline.com/health/bronchitis). This will reduce your chances of coming into contact with germs. If you have existing medical conditions that increase your chances of developing a cough, such as GERD or asthma, ask a doctor about different management strategies. Once you manage your condition, you may find that your cough disappears or becomes much less frequent.
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