A cough is a defense mechanism triggered by the body in an effort to remove potentially harmful substances from the respiratory tract. These substances can include stomach acid, mucus, germs and chemical irritants. An occasional cough is a normal response and usually not indicative of a serious condition. A chronic cough accompanied by other symptoms usually signifies underlying health problems.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
The lower gastroesophageal sphincter is a valve that is located at the end of the esophagus and the top of the stomach. In a healthy individual, the sphincter opens and closes at varying times to prevent stomach contents from rising back up into the esophagus. In those with gastroesophageal reflux disease, the gastroesophageal sphincter either does not close properly or opens up unexpectedly. This allows stomach contents, specifically stomach acid, to rise into the esophagus resulting in heartburn, which is burning pain in the middle of the chest. Heartburn is accompanied by a dry cough, wheezing and difficulty swallowing, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The exact cause of gastroesophageal reflux disease is unknown. Treatment consists of medications combined with lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, cessation of smoking and avoidance of certain foods.
Asthma
The bronchial tubes are the airways that allow air to move in and out of the lungs. Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways become inflamed, causing them to narrow and making breathing difficult. The exact cause of asthma is unknown, but it is believed to occur as a result of a combination of genetics, allergies and previous respiratory infections, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Coughing is a common symptom of asthma and usually worsens at night or early in the morning. Other symptoms of asthma include wheezing, tightness in the chest and shortness of breath. There is no cure for asthma, but treatment consists of a combination of quick-relief and long-term medications that decrease the inflammation that causes narrowing of the airways. Quick-relief medications are used during an asthma attack and long-term medications are usually used daily for a lifetime.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is the name for a group of lung diseases that block airflow and cause difficulty breathing. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease most often includes a combination of emphysema and bronchitis. The leading cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is damage to the lungs caused by smoking. Symptoms include a chronic cough accompanied by mucus, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness and recurring respiratory infections, according to MayoClinic.com. The first step in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is to quit smoking. Other treatment options include medications and oxygen therapy. In severe cases, lung surgery may be required.
