Cough is a common reflex that helps clear the airways of irritants and secretions. It may be short-lived (acute), subacute, or persist long-term (chronic), and can result from infections, allergies, chronic lung conditions, reflux, or environmental exposures. This page provides general information on likely causes, associated signs, and when to seek medical assessment.
Many things can provoke cough. Frequent causes include upper respiratory infections (common cold, influenza), acute bronchitis and sinusitis. Asthma and allergic rhinitis often cause cough, while smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and gastroesophageal reflux disease can lead to persistent cough. In young children, viral infections are common causes and foreign-body aspiration is an important emergency consideration.
Cough is often classified by duration: acute (usually under 3 weeks), subacute (3–8 weeks) and chronic (over 8 weeks in adults). Clinicians also note whether a cough is dry or productive (with sputum). Productive cough can point to infection or chronic bronchitis; nocturnal cough, exercise-induced cough or positional worsening suggest different causes such as asthma or reflux.
Certain accompanying symptoms may indicate an urgent problem. Seek immediate medical attention if there is severe breathlessness, chest pain, high fever, bloody sputum, blue discoloration, loss of consciousness or rapid deterioration. In children, signs such as difficulty breathing, poor feeding, or chest retractions require prompt evaluation. This page offers general guidance; for acute emergency signs contact local emergency services.
Initial assessment is often appropriate with a family physician or primary care clinician. Depending on findings and duration, referral may be made to Pulmonology (Chest Medicine), Ear Nose and Throat (ENT), Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Allergy/Immunology, or Pediatrics for children. Specialists decide which tests (imaging, lung function, microbiology) are appropriate for further diagnosis.
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