A cough is a reflexive action of the respiratory system that clears the airways of mucus, irritants, and pathogens. It is a common symptom of respiratory infections, allergies, and other medical conditions. However, not all coughs are the same.

They can vary in sound, duration, frequency, and accompanying symptoms. Therefore, interpreting different types of cough can help to diagnose the underlying cause and guide the appropriate treatment. In this article, we will discuss ten types of cough and their possible causes and remedies.

1. Dry cough

A dry cough is a cough that produces no phlegm or mucus. It is also called a non-productive cough. Dry coughs can be caused by many factors, such as viral infections, allergies, asthma, or acid reflux.

They can be worsened by irritants, such as smoke, dust, or dry air. Dry coughs can be annoying and persistent and may cause chest pain, sore throat, or fatigue.

To treat a dry cough, one can take over-the-counter cough suppressants, such as dextromethorphan or codeine, or natural remedies, such as honey, ginger, or turmeric.

2. Wet cough

A wet cough is a cough that produces phlegm or mucus. It is also called a productive cough. Wet coughs can be caused by respiratory infections, such as colds, flu, or pneumonia, or chronic conditions, such as chronic bronchitis or cystic fibrosis.

They can be followed by wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest congestion. To treat a wet cough, one can take over-the-counter expectorants, such as guaifenesin, or natural remedies, such as steam inhalation, saline nasal drops, or herbal teas.

3. Nighttime cough

A nighttime cough is a cough that occurs mainly at night or disrupts sleep. It can be caused by many factors, such as postnasal drip, acid reflux, or asthma. A nighttime cough can lead to fatigue, irritability, or impaired cognitive function.

To treat a nighttime cough, one can elevate the head of the bed, avoid eating or drinking before bedtime, or take antihistamines or nasal steroids.

4. Chronic cough

A chronic cough is a cough that lasts for more than eight weeks in adults or four weeks in children. It can be caused by many conditions, such as postnasal drip, smoking, or chronic bronchitis.

A chronic cough can be a sign of more serious diseases, such as lung cancer or pulmonary fibrosis. To diagnose a chronic cough, the doctor may perform a chest X-ray, a lung function test, or a bronchoscopy. To treat a chronic cough, one may need to address the underlying cause, such as quitting smoking, taking antibiotics, or undergoing therapy.

5. Barking cough

A barking cough is a cough that sounds like a seal or a dog bark. It is a common symptom of croup, a viral infection that affects the larynx and trachea in young children. A barking cough can be triggered by cold air, exertion, or crying.

It can cause the child to have difficulty breathing, high fever, or blue skin. To treat a barking cough, one can use a cool-mist humidifier, give the child plenty of fluids, or administer oral or inhaled corticosteroids.

6. Whooping cough

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a bacterial infection that causes a harsh, high-pitched, and repetitive cough. It can affect people of all ages but is more severe and deadly in infants and young children.

Whooping cough can be transmitted through droplets from a cough or a sneeze. It can cause the child to have vomiting, choking, or apnea. To prevent whooping cough, one can receive the pertussis vaccine, which is part of the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccine.

7. Smoker’s cough

A smoker’s cough is a chronic cough that affects people who smoke or have smoked in the past. It is caused by the damage of the cilia, the tiny hairs that line the airways and help to clear mucus and debris.

A smoker’s cough can be a sign of lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory diseases. To treat a smoker’s cough, one should quit smoking and seek medical advice to detect any underlying conditions.

8. Asthmatic cough

An asthmatic cough is a cough that is associated with asthma, a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the airways and causes recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

An asthmatic cough can be triggered by various factors, such as allergens, exercise, or cold air. It can be worsened by exposure to smoke, dust, or fumes. To treat an asthmatic cough, one should use a bronchodilator or an inhaled corticosteroid, or follow an asthma action plan.

9. Postnasal drip cough

A postnasal drip cough is a cough that is caused by the accumulation of mucus in the back of the throat, due to conditions such as allergies, sinusitis, or rhinitis.

The mucus can irritate the throat and trigger a cough reflex, especially when lying down or sleeping. A postnasal drip cough can be accompanied by a sore throat, hoarseness, or bad breath. To treat a postnasal drip cough, one can use saline nasal sprays, antihistamines, or decongestants.

10. Psychogenic cough

A psychogenic cough is a cough that is caused by psychological or emotional factors, such as anxiety, stress, or depression. A psychogenic cough can be dry or wet and is not related to any physiological or pathological condition.

It can be hard to diagnose and treat, as the underlying cause is not physical. To treat a psychogenic cough, one should address the underlying psychological or emotional factors, such as counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, interpreting different types of cough allows for a better understanding of the underlying causes and appropriate treatments. Coughs can range from dry to wet, from acute to chronic, and from infectious to non-infectious.

Coughs can also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, chest pain, or shortness of breath. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if the cough persists or worsens and to follow the doctor’s advice.