Types of Coughing

Coughing occurs when our body's respiratory tubes become irritated. It is a reflex action started by sensory nerves located in respiratory passages. Coughing is our body's defense against pollutions such as dirt and dust. When these items enter our lungs they can cause respiratory infections.

Hacking

• A hacking cough sometimes begins as a tickle in the back of the throat. It can be caused by dust, cigarette smoke, dry air or a virus infection. Throats often become sore from the consistent coughing. There is not an excess of mucus produced with this type of cough.

Productive

• A productive cough is associated with infection, colds and flu. Chest congestion causes an over-production of mucus that needs to be expelled. The mucus gets very thick, making it difficult to cough up.

Asthmatic

• Airborne pollutants can trigger an asthmatic coughing spell. The cough is often non-productive and accompanied by crackling or wheezing. Airways become constricted due to the irritant, causing breathing difficulties.

Allergic

• Allergic coughs are caused by draining nasal passages. This drainage, caused by allergies, enters the throat and causes irritation. This irritation provokes a coughing spell, which also causes airways to become constricted.

Whooping

• Whooping cough is common in children. It is caused by a bacterial infection and is highly contagious. The sufferers' constant coughing may cause spasms, dry heavy or vomiting. Its symptoms are the inability to take adequate breaths, and long coughing fits.

Chronic

• Health conditions may cause bouts of involuntary coughing. Individuals with emphysema, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and cystic fibrosis suffer from this condition. The COPD cough is dry and raspy. A person suffering with cystic fibrosis, meanwhile, may have phlegm and a wet-sounding cough.