Types of Cough: Coughing is something you’ve all experienced. It could be a tickle in your throat, a chesty cough that won’t stop or a strange sound that makes you wonder if something serious is going on. But did you know each can tell you something about what’s going on in your body? In this guide, you can learn everything about different types of coughing.
Why do we cough?
Coughing is your body’s way of protecting your airways. When something irritates your throat, lungs or airways, your body tries to get rid of it by coughing. It’s a natural reflex, like sneezing when something tickles your nose. But not all coughs are alike. The sound, feel, and timing of your cough can tell you a lot about what’s causing it.
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Dry cough
A dry cough doesn’t produce mucus; it often feels like a tickle in your throat and can be very irritating. Common causes include viral infections, allergies, irritants and asthma. It worsens at night and may manifest in bouts or fits. You can drink warm fluids, use a humidifier if the air is dry, and see a doctor if the cough lasts longer than two to three weeks.
Wet cough
A wet cough helps bring up mucus from the lungs or throat, acting as the body’s way of clearing the respiratory system. It is often caused by conditions such as the common cold, flu, pneumonia, or post-nasal drip. This type of cough usually feels heavy and chesty, and you may notice mucus moving when you cough or even taste it at times. Managing a wet cough includes staying well-hydrated to thin the mucus and using steam inhalation to ease congestion.
Whooping cough
Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella bacteria. The illness gets its name from the distinctive “whooping” sound that follows a long bout of coughing, as the person gasps for air. It often begins like a mild cold but progresses into severe, uncontrollable coughing fits that may end with vomiting, extreme fatigue, or difficulty breathing. Infants are particularly vulnerable to severe complications. Prompt medical attention is essential, and in some cases, antibiotic treatment may be required.
Barking cough
A barking cough, often compared to the sound of a seal, typically affects young children. It is most commonly caused by a viral infection that leads to swelling in the windpipe, making the cough harsher, especially at night. Simple measures such as exposure to steam from a hot shower, cool night air, and keeping the child calm and upright can help ease symptoms.
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A cough, while common, is your body’s way of signalling that something may be wrong. Whether it’s dry, wet, or whooping cough, recognising the type is important when deciding the next steps. Often, rest and fluids are enough, but sometimes a cough may point to a more serious condition that requires medical attention.
