Cough is a natural defense mechanism of our body. It is a process that the body carries out on its own to expel mucus, dust particles, foreign objects or germs that are obstructing the air flow in the airways or lungs. However, when this cough lasts for several days, it can be a symptom of many other health problems. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind coughing:
Respiratory Infections: The most common cause of coughing is viral or bacterial infections. Even after viral fevers like cold and flu, people with respiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia also experience a severe cough. This is because germs cause severe swelling and excessive mucus in the airways.
Allergies & Asthma: Some people develop allergies when they breathe in dust, smoke, pollen, and pet dander, which can lead to a chronic dry cough. Asthma patients experience a sudden narrowing of the airways (bronchospasm) and mucus buildup, which can lead to a severe cough.
Acid Reflux or Gas (GERD): This is a cause that many people don’t realize. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a condition in which stomach acid flows up the esophagus and into the throat, causing constant irritation to the delicate tissues of the throat and airways. This can lead to a chronic dry cough that worsens, especially at night.
Post-Nasal Drip: In people with sinusitis or a chronic cold, excess mucus in the nose and sinuses can slowly drain into the back of the throat. This causes constant itching and discomfort in the throat and the person has to cough continuously to expel the secretions.
Side effects of some medications and smoking: A chronic dry cough is a major side effect of ACE Inhibitors (for example: Enalapril, Ramipril) pills taken to reduce high blood pressure (High BP). In addition, in smokers, the toxins in cigarette smoke destroy the cleaning cells (cilia) in the lungs, resulting in a chronic cough (Smoker’s Cough).