A cough is a defence mechanism. It is simply trying to remove anything that is unknown to the body.
Causes
- Viral (Parainfluenza viruses, Respiratory Syncytial virus, influenza
- Bacterial (M pneumonaie, C. pneumonie)
- An irritant
- Allergies
- Respiratory conditions
- Acid reflux conditions
- Medication
- An acute (short term) cough is described as a cough persisting less than three weeks and is usually self limiting and can be caused by infection and irritants.
- A subacute cough is a described as a cough lasting between three and eight weeks and is normally caused by an infection (Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Bordetella pertussis).It is important to monitor’ Refer to Dr symptoms’.
- A chronic (long term) cough lasts normally more than eight weeks and is normally caused by irritants , allergies, smoking, respiratory conditions , acid reflux conditions. It is important to monitor’ Refer to Dr symptoms’.