A cough is a defence mechanism. It is simply trying to remove anything that is unknown to the body.

There is normally a lack of phlegm and the patient may describe it as ‘dry’ amd/or ‘tickly’.

Cause

• An infection:

1. Viral: (Parainfluenza viruses, Respiratory Syncytial virus, influenza viruses)
2. Bacterial: (M pneumonaie, C. pneumonie)

• An irritant
• Allergies
• Exposed to air conditioned rooms
• Respiratory conditions
• Acid re-flux 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’.