Why am i coughing
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Understanding the Causes of Cough: A Comprehensive Overview
Coughing is a common reflex action that serves to clear the airways of irritants and mucus. However, persistent or chronic cough can be a symptom of various underlying conditions. This article synthesizes research findings to provide a clear understanding of why you might be coughing.
Common Causes of Cough
Respiratory Infections and Conditions
Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are a frequent cause of acute cough. These infections can be viral or bacterial and often lead to inflammation and irritation of the airways, triggering the cough reflex. Chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are also significant contributors to persistent cough. Asthma, in particular, can present as cough-variant asthma (CVA), where cough is the predominant or sole symptom.
Environmental and Occupational Factors
Environmental exposures, both indoor and outdoor, play a crucial role in causing cough. Indoor irritants such as cigarette smoke, cooking fumes, dust mites, and pet dander can lead to upper airway cough syndrome (UACS), previously known as postnasal drip syndrome . Outdoor pollutants and allergens, including pollen and industrial emissions, can exacerbate respiratory conditions and contribute to chronic cough.
Occupational exposures to irritants and allergens, such as chemicals, dust, and fumes, can also lead to cough. Conditions like occupational asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) are examples where workplace environments significantly impact respiratory health .
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is another common cause of chronic cough. The reflux of stomach acids into the esophagus can irritate the throat and airways, leading to a persistent cough. This condition is often part of a "pathogenic triad" along with asthma and UACS, which together account for the majority of chronic cough cases.
Mechanisms of Cough
The development of cough involves complex mechanisms. Inhaled irritants and airway inflammation stimulate receptors in the vagus nerve, leading to the release of neuropeptides such as substance P. This triggers a local response and stimulates cough receptors, which then activate the cough center in the medulla. This intricate process explains why cough is a common symptom across various respiratory disorders.
Less Common Causes
While the above factors are the most prevalent, other less common causes include bronchiectasis, pulmonary fibrosis, and certain medications like ACE inhibitors, which can induce cough as a side effect. Additionally, conditions like tracheobronchial collapse and idiopathic cough, where no clear cause is identified, also contribute to the spectrum of chronic cough .
Conclusion
Coughing can result from a wide range of causes, from common respiratory infections and environmental exposures to chronic conditions like asthma and GERD. Understanding these underlying factors is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. If you are experiencing a persistent cough, it is essential to consider these potential causes and seek medical evaluation to determine the appropriate course of action.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic