Coughing
Coughing is the reflexive action of clearing the throat of foreign irritants and mucus. While coughing is something that everyone does occasionally, specific conditions may increase their frequency. A cough lasts three to eight weeks and is referred to as subacute. However, it’s considered a chronic condition if it goes beyond eight weeks. Those who cough blood up or have persistent coughs should immediately see their doctors, as they may indicate something serious.
There are many causes for coughing, with throat clearing being the most common. When the airways are clogged with foreign particles or mucus, coughing helps eliminate them and makes breathing easier. Coughing can also be caused by bacteria and viruses, like the flu or a cold. These respiratory infections are often the result of a virus. Depending on how severe they are, they can last days to weeks.
Usually, coughing should immediately clear up or improve in a couple of days. It might take a week or so if it’s a viral infection. However, if there are symptoms like chest pain, drowsiness, confusion, breathlessness, and coughing blood, it’s a sign to seek medical treatment immediately. If not, the symptoms may worsen and become potentially dangerous.
