Coughing is a natural reflex of our respiratory system that occurs when there is an irritant in our airways. It’s our body’s way of getting rid of mucus, foreign particles, or bacteria that can cause infections.

While coughing is usually not a cause for concern and can often be treated with self care, it’s important to recognize when you need medical attention.

Here are 10 questions that can help decode the secrets your cough may reveal:.

1. What’s the duration of your cough?

Coughs that last longer than 3 weeks are considered chronic and may be a sign of an underlying health issue such as asthma, allergies, bronchitis or COPD.

2. Do you cough up phlegm?

The color, texture, and thickness of phlegm can provide clues as to what might be causing your cough. Green or yellow mucus may indicate an infection while clear mucus may be a sign of allergies or asthma.

3. Is your cough dry or wet?

A dry cough occurs when there is no phlegm or mucus present. It may be a sign of an allergy, asthma, or even acid reflux. A wet cough, on the other hand, is productive and helps clear out mucus and phlegm from the lungs.

4. How frequent is your cough?

If you cough more at night, it may be a sign of asthma or GERD. If you cough during the day, it may be due to allergies or a respiratory infection.

5. Are there triggers that make your cough worse?

If your cough is triggered by certain activities such as exercise or laughing, it may be due to asthma. If it’s triggered by certain foods or smells, it may be due to an allergy.

6. Are you experiencing other symptoms with your cough?

Fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, and fatigue may be accompanying symptoms of your cough. These may be signs of a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

7. Have you recently been exposed to someone with a respiratory infection?

If you’ve been in close contact with someone who has a cold or the flu, it’s possible that you may have caught the same virus and developed a cough.

8. Do you smoke or have a history of smoking?

Smoking can cause chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer. If you’re a smoker and have a persistent cough, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider.

9. Are you taking any medications that may cause a cough as a side effect?

Some medications such as ACE inhibitors used to treat high blood pressure can cause a persistent cough as a side effect.

10. Are you experiencing stress or anxiety?

Stress and anxiety can cause a dry, persistent cough. It’s important to speak with your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing these symptoms.

In Conclusion

Coughing can provide important clues as to what might be causing a health issue. By paying attention to your cough and answering these questions, you can better understand what your cough may be trying to tell you.