Coughing is a common reflex action that helps to clear your throat and airways of irritants, mucus or phlegm. However, persistent coughing can be a sign of an underlying health issue.

In this article, we explore ten health problems that coughing can reveal and what you should know about them.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung disease characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. It affects over 300 million people globally and is a leading cause of disability.

Coughing is a common symptom of asthma, and it’s often worse at night or early morning. Other symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is a group of lung diseases that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is a progressive disease that causes airflow obstruction, making it difficult to breathe. Coughing with mucus production is often an early symptom of COPD.

As the disease progresses, the cough may become more severe and bothersome, especially in the morning.

GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid or bile flows back into your esophagus. It is a common cause of chronic coughing especially at night.

Other symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can cause a cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. The cough is usually productive, meaning that you produce mucus or phlegm.

Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, and can be life-threatening, especially in older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. It can cause a chronic cough that lasts for weeks or months, along with other symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and weight loss.

TB is a serious condition that can be spread through the air, and it’s important to get treated if you suspect you have it.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a condition in which cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably and form tumors that can spread to other parts of the body. A persistent cough that lasts longer than three weeks can be a sign of lung cancer.

Other symptoms of lung cancer include chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood.

Whooping Cough

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is highly contagious and can cause severe coughing fits followed by a “whooping” sound when you try to breathe in.

Whooping cough mainly affects infants and young children, but it can also affect adults who have not been vaccinated.

Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a disease that causes inflammation in different organs of the body, including the lungs. A persistent cough can be a sign of sarcoidosis, along with other symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest pain.

Sarcoidosis is a rare condition that can be difficult to diagnose and treat.

Heart Failure

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to the rest of the body. A chronic cough that is worse at night and accompanied by wheezing and shortness of breath can be a sign of heart failure.

Other symptoms include fatigue, swelling in the legs, and rapid heartbeat.

Smoking is a major cause of many health problems, including chronic coughing. Smoking can damage your lungs and cause conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

These conditions can cause a chronic cough that is usually productive and accompanied by shortness of breath and wheezing.

Conclusion

While coughing is a natural reflex action, it can be a sign of an underlying health problem.

If you have a persistent cough that lasts for more than a week or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or chest pain, it’s important to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and improve your overall health.