A cough is a reflex triggered by the body in an attempt to keep harmful substances out of body and keep the airways clear. An occasional cough may occur as a result of dust particles or irritating substances in the air, or it can be brought on by an acute sickness such as the common cold. Damage to the lungs or chronic excess mucus production can trigger a recurrent hacking cough in a vain attempt to clear the airways.
Chronic Bronchitis
The lungs contain a network of airways called bronchial tubes that allow air to flow into and out of the lungs and maintain a proper exchange of gases. Chronic bronchitis is a condition in which the bronchial tubes are irritated and inflamed. The inflammation of the tubes results in a narrower space in the airway and the irritation triggers the mucus membranes in the bronchial tubes to produce excess mucus. This excess mucus accumulates in the narrower space of the airways and causes a recurrent hacking mucus-filled cough, difficulty breathing and tightness in the chest. In order to be classified as chronic bronchitis, the symptoms must last for at least three months, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Smoking is the leading cause of chronic bronchitis, but frequent exposure to chemical irritants or dust particles may also cause the condition. Initial treatment for chronic bronchitis consists of the cessation of smoking or avoidance of other harmful substances. Avoidance of irritants allows the lungs to begin to heal themselves. Medications can also be used to open up the airways and improve breathing.
Emphysema
In addition to bronchial tubes, the lungs contain air sacs, called alveoli, which hold the smallest bronchial tubes open to aid in proper breathing. Emphysema occurs when the alveoli become enlarged and rupture, which causes the bronchial tubes to narrow. This makes breathing and gas exchange difficult and can result in permanent damage to the lung tissue, according to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. The most common cause of emphysema is cigarette smoking. Symptoms of emphysema include premature exertion during exercise, recurrent hacking cough, shortness of breath and a visibly enlarged chest. If left untreated, emphysema can lead to heart failure and respiratory failure. The goal of treatment for emphysema is to slow down the progression of the lung damage and improve breathing. This is done through the cessation of smoking and use of inhaled medications that open the airways. As emphysema progresses, oxygen therapy may be needed.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung condition characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes. Symptoms of asthma occur in attacks, during which muscles that surround the airways contract causing the airways to become tight and the lining in the airways swells. Symptoms of asthma include a hacking cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness and wheezing. The cause of asthma is unclear, but common triggers for attacks include animal dander, dust particles, strenuous physical activity, cold temperatures, increased stress and smoke. Treatment for asthma consists of long-term management and quick-relief medications.
