A cough is a common symptom that can be caused by various factors such as allergies, viral infections, and even serious medical conditions.

Knowing the type of cough you have can help identify the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment. Here are six types of cough and their symptoms:.

Dry Cough

A dry cough, also referred to as a non-productive cough, is characterized by a persistent hacking sound without any mucus production.

It is one of the most common types of cough and is usually caused by respiratory viruses such as the common cold or the flu. Dry coughs can also be triggered by exposure to air pollutants, allergies, or acid reflux disease.

Symptoms:.

A persistent hacking sound
No mucus production
Occurs mostly at night and can interfere with sleep
Can cause chest pain and sore throat
Can last up to three weeks

Wet Cough

A wet cough, also known as a productive cough, produces mucus or phlegm from the lungs and airways. It is usually caused by infection or inflammation of the respiratory system, including bronchitis, pneumonia, or asthma.

A wet cough can also be triggered by exposure to irritants such as smoke or pollution.

Symptoms:.

Mucus or phlegm production
A deep, chesty sound while coughing
Can cause wheezing or shortness of breath
Symptoms last up to three weeks

Barking Cough

A barking cough is a harsh, dry cough that sounds like a seal barking and is usually associated with croup, a viral infection that affects the larynx and trachea. It is more common in children and can cause difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Symptoms:.

A harsh, barking sound while coughing
Inflammation of the larynx and trachea
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Symptoms last up to one week

Whooping Cough

Also known as pertussis, whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes violent coughing fits, followed by a whooping sound when inhaling.

It can affect anyone, but it is particularly severe in infants and young children who have not been vaccinated.

Symptoms:.

Vomiting during coughing spells
Difficulty breathing or catching breath after coughing spells
A whooping sound while inhaling
Symptoms can last up to six weeks

Chesty Cough

A chesty cough, also known as a bronchial cough, produces mucus or phlegm from the chest and is usually caused by an infection or inflammation of the bronchi or bronchioles.

It is more common in smokers or people with chronic lung diseases such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

Symptoms:.

Mucus or phlegm production from the chest
Shortness of breath and wheezing
Fatigue and chest discomfort
Symptoms last up to three weeks

Nighttime Cough

A nighttime cough is a type of cough that occurs mostly at night and can disturb sleep. It is usually caused by postnasal drip, acid reflux, or asthma. Irritation of the throat and airways due to dry air or allergens can also trigger a nighttime cough.

Symptoms:.

A persistent cough that occurs mostly at night
Can cause difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Can lead to exhaustion and fatigue
Symptoms last for several weeks

Conclusion

A cough is a symptom that can have various causes, ranging from mild to severe. Identifying the type of cough you have can help diagnose the underlying condition and determine the appropriate treatment.

If you experience a persistent cough, see your doctor for a proper diagnosis.