Cough is a common reflex that helps to clear the airways of mucus, irritants, and other substances. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a cold, the flu, allergies, or exposure to irritants. While a cough is usually not a serious condition, it can be annoying and disruptive, and in some cases, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of cough and the treatment options available for managing and relieving cough.

Symptoms of Cough

The most common symptom of cough is a persistent or intermittent hacking sound that is produced when the muscles in the chest and throat contract to expel air and mucus from the respiratory tract. Other symptoms that may accompany a cough include:

• Sore throat: A cough can irritate the throat and cause it to become sore.
• Chest discomfort: Coughing can cause discomfort or pain in the chest, especially if the cough is productive (meaning it brings up mucus or phlegm).
• Shortness of breath: A cough may cause difficulty breathing or a feeling of tightness in the chest, particularly in people with underlying lung conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Hoarseness: A persistent or chronic cough can cause the voice to become hoarse or strained.
• Fatigue: Coughing can be physically exhausting and may cause feelings of tiredness or weakness.
• Fever: In some cases, a cough may be accompanied by a fever, which may be a sign of a bacterial infection or another underlying condition.
• Other symptoms: Depending on the underlying cause of the cough, other symptoms may also be present. For example, a cough caused by allergies may be accompanied by sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose, while a cough caused by a cold or the flu may be accompanied by a stuffy nose, body aches, and fatigue.

Treatment of Cough

Treatment for cough depends on the underlying cause of the cough and the severity of the symptoms. In many cases, a cough will resolve on its own within a few days to a week with no treatment necessary. However, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications that can help to relieve the symptoms of a cough and make it more manageable.

OTC medications:

• Cough suppressants: Cough suppressants, also known as antitussives, work by reducing the urge to cough. These medications are generally not recommended for productive coughs (coughs that bring up mucus or phlegm) as they may interfere with the body’s natural ability to clear the respiratory tract. Common OTC cough suppressants include dextromethorphan and codeine.
• Expectorants: Expectorants, also known as mucolytics, work by thinning the mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up. Common OTC expectorants include guaifenesin and bromhexine.
• Decongestants: Decongestants can help to relieve a congested or stuffy nose, which may be causing or contributing to a cough. These medications work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing swelling and congestion. Common OTC decongestants include pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin can help to relieve inflammation and swelling in the respiratory tract, which may be causing or contributing to a cough.