There are several different types of coughs.
Each has distinct characteristics that we can use to help identify its cause.
Noting any other other symptoms you may have will be important to help them find a diagnosis.
Verywell / JR Bee
With a wet cough, you produce mucus and/or sputum.
Even the way a cough sounds can give us a pretty good clue as to what is going on.
Together, they paint a clearer portrait of the illness.
There are two categories of cough medications you might choose, called expectorants and suppressants.
They work in different ways.
Coughing is the body’s normal reaction to any foreign object in the lungs, including dust and mucus.
If you havechest congestion, coughing will help wipe the lungs, allowing you to heal more quickly.
Suppressing it can lead to a worsening of symptoms and the development of pneumonia.
This is especially helpful when children have croup.
Alternately, you might take a steamy shower or bath for a similar, though shorter-term, effect.
There are times, however, when a persistent or severe cough warrants a visit to your healthcare provider.
Reviewed on September 17, 2019.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.COPD.
Centers for Disease Control.Tuberculosis (TB).
Reviewed on March 17, 2016.
Jarosz M, Taraszewska A.Risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease: the role of diet.
2014;9(5):297-301. doi: 10.5114/pg.2014.46166
