What is a Cough?
Coughing often occurs in combination with other typical cold symptoms. There is a distinction between dry cough and productive cough, though the line between dry, irritating cough and cough with mucus production is usually fluid.
The duration of a typical cold lasts about 9 to 14 days. However, after acute bronchitis, the cough can persist for up to 8 weeks.
Causes
Coughing has various causes, with viral infections of the upper respiratory tract being the most common cause. The triggers for these infections are usually rhino-, corona-, parainfluenza-, and adenoviruses.
When Should You See a Doctor?
A dry, irritating cough without cold symptoms may indicate other conditions. Accompanying breathing noises such as wheezing or whistling are also possible symptoms. Severe, spasmodic coughing is called whooping cough.
Coughing that changes or increases, especially in smokers, should be carefully monitored. If symptoms persist for longer than 8 weeks, it is referred to as chronic cough and should be evaluated by a doctor. A fever above 39°C and severe illness symptoms are also a reason to seek medical advice.