Atabay Medical Director Specialist Dr. Murat Yaycı drew attention to the causes of cough, which is one of the most common symptoms of flu, but sometimes indicates a serious health problem.
Cough is one of the most common symptoms of the flu and is usually accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches and weakness. However, cough can also be caused by a cold, allergies, digestive problems or many other health problems other than the flu. Atabay Medical Director Specialist Dr. Murat Yaycı emphasized that cough can sometimes be a sign of a serious health problem. Yaycı said, “There are some signs to watch out for. If your cough has been going on for a few weeks or longer, you should definitely consult a health professional. In addition, if you have symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches and weakness along with your cough, it is highly likely to be caused by the flu and it is important to treat it early.” Murat Yaycı listed the factors that may be the cause of cough as follows:
Air pollution
Air contaminated with chemicals or factors such as mold and dust can trigger coughing. To prevent this, a mask can be worn or special filters can be used in air conditioners.
Common Cold
The virus that causes the common cold is the 'rhinovirus'. It occurs when viruses enter the body through small particles in the air, such as the mouth, eyes and nose. It can also be transmitted through a cough, sneeze or contact (such as holding a doorknob that has the virus on it) from a sick person. In addition to a runny nose and sneezing, a cold can also cause a cough. It usually goes away in a week or less. However, if it is severe or lasts 2 weeks or longer, you should see a doctor.
Grip
The flu virus infects the throat, nose, and lungs, just like a cold. It is spread through the air when sick people sneeze or cough, or by touching objects they have touched. The flu usually feels worse than a cold.
Postnasal Drip
When the body produces too much phlegm, it can drain down the back of the throat and trigger a cough. This can be caused by a number of things, including infections and allergies, and treatment is planned accordingly. For example, if you have an infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Allergies can be prevented with lifestyle changes or medications.
Asthma
Asthma occurs when the airways become narrow and swollen. It may be difficult to breathe and you may produce phlegm. Pollen, dust, smoke, exercise, cold weather, colds and stress are all triggers for asthma attacks. Your doctor can help you identify and prevent these factors. He or she can also prescribe asthma-preventing medications and a medicine you inhale during a sudden attack.
Acute Bronchitis
An infection in the throat, nose, and lungs causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs. This usually goes away within a few days. However, you may have a cough that brings up thick, colored phlegm for a few weeks. If this cough persists or reoccurs, you may have another problem, such as chronic bronchitis. You should see your doctor for proper treatment.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
It occurs when stomach acid, sometimes mixed with partially digested food, flows up into the throat. This can irritate the tube that connects the throat to the stomach and make swallowing difficult. It can also cause a dry cough. It can usually be relieved with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. However, if it's serious, prescription medications or surgery may be necessary.
pneumonia
When bacteria, viruses, or fungi infect the lungs, the air sacs there can fill with fluid or pus. This causes a cough with thick phlegm. It can also cause fever, chills, and shortness of breath. Treatment for bacterial infections includes antibiotics, cough suppressants, antipyretics, and painkillers.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is the name of a group of diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause breathing problems. The tiny air sacs in the lungs become damaged or irritated, making it harder for air to flow. Treatment depends on the cause, but your doctor may prescribe medication and suggest lifestyle changes, such as not smoking.
pertussis
It is caused by a bacterial infection and causes a distinctive, deep, wheezy cough. Many people are vaccinated against whooping cough, but boosters may be needed as they get older. If you have a baby in your home, you need to make sure your vaccinations are up to date. It can be treated with antibiotics, but whooping cough can be very dangerous for babies and the elderly.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
It's a condition where the throat muscles relax during sleep, closing the airway, making it difficult to breathe. Snoring is the most common symptom of this condition. Your doctor may recommend a machine called CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), which helps keep your airway open while you sleep, but some people may need surgery.
Medicines
Some medications used to treat high blood pressure cause a cough in 5 out of XNUMX people. If you experience this, consult your doctor, who may recommend a different medication.
Heart failure
It's a condition where narrowed arteries, high blood pressure or another condition prevents the heart from pumping as hard as it should. One symptom is a cough that's white or pink and frothy and has phlegm. Medication and lifestyle changes like exercise, better nutrition or weight loss can help.
Lung cancer
A bloody cough can be a sign of lung cancer, which can also be noticed by a prolonged cough. Symptoms include chest pain, fatigue, weight loss, wheezing and difficulty breathing. Treatments for lung cancer include radiation, chemotherapy and surgery.
