A cough is the immune system's attempt to remove an irritant that has made its way in the respiratory tract. An occasional cough is normal and usually occurs in response to excess mucus, particles in the air or bothersome food. A nagging or chronic cough often indicates an underlying medical condition that affects some part of the respiratory system.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. When the airways are inflamed, their sensitivity is increased and they overreact to any irritants by quickly tightening. The cells in the airways also produce excess mucus. This combination of factors results in a nagging cough, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Symptoms occur in attacks that may be triggered by airborne allergens, chemical irritants, certain medications, extremely cold temperatures, increased physical exercise and upper respiratory infections, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Asthma is a chronic disease that has no cure, but medications can control symptoms. A combination of quick-relief inhalers, used during an attack, and long-term medications used for management can help control asthma.
Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is characterized by inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes, which are the airways in the lungs. The inflammation causes excess mucus to accumulate in the airways as well. The mucus blocks the airways and hinders air flow. This results in a persistent cough that is often filled with mucus. A tight feeling in the chest and difficulty breathing may also accompany the cough. Cigarette smoking is the main cause of chronic bronchitis, but it can also develop as a result of constant chemical or dust exposure, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. The first step in treating chronic bronchitis is to quit smoking. An inhaled medication called a bronchodilator may also be used to open the airways and make breathing easier.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a lung infection that can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. Bacteria are the most common cause of pneumonia, and also cause the most serious type of infection, according to Medline Plus. The most common symptoms of pneumonia are a nagging mucus-filled cough, mild to high fever, chills and shortness of breath. Those who pneumonia may also experience confusion, excess sweating, headache, loss of appetite, fatigue and sharp chest pain. Treatment for pneumonia depends on the germ that caused it. Bacterial pneumonias are usually treated with antibiotics, whereas viral pneumonias are treated with antiviral medications.
