A cough from the chest is a common symptom of a chest cold, or bronchitis, according to the Centers for Disease Control. A chest cold is inflammation in the airways, commonly from a viral infection. The infection causes the airways to become swollen, causing abnormal breathing and overproduction of mucus. The airway restriction combined with excessive mucus irritates the coughing reflex muscle, leading to constant coughing. It may sound like the cough is coming from the chest with fluid behind the cough. As always, see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of acute bronchitis is a chesty cough. The cough may sound hoarse and deep within the chest due to excessive fluid. The inflammation in the lungs will cause the mucous membranes to produce more mucus, leading to difficulty breathing and phlegm in the back of the throat. Other symptoms include wheezing, fatigue, chest pain and a fever, according to MayoClinic.com.
Causes
A cough from the chest as a result of acute bronchitis can be caused by various factors. Germs, viruses and bacteria can enter the airways, causing infection and inflammation. Harmful chemical fumes from household cleaners or industrial occupations can lead to a cough from the chest, which is considered to be non-infectious bronchitis, according to the Merck Manuals. Allergens and other irritants may also cause bronchial inflammation, such as pollen, dust and cigarette smoke.
Natural Treatment
Natural treatments are used to treat viral infections in order to strengthen the immune system to kill the virus. MayoClinic.com recommends getting more rest, increasing fluid intake and running a humidifier or using steam to help soothe the airways. Drinking more water and other clear fluids will help thin mucus secretions in the chest, making coughing more effective. Hot liquids, such as herbal tea and soups, are effective at clearing the chest of fluid.
Medical Treatment
Treating a chest cough begins with identifying the cause of the inflammation. If the bronchial tubes are inflamed from allergies, avoid known allergens and take a daily antihistamine to reduce the allergy-related symptoms. Cough medication is used in all causes of a chest cough, according to the Merck Manuals. Cough suppressants restrict the body from coughing excessively, preventing further throat irritation. An expectorant may be used to thin mucus secretions in the chest to make coughing more productive.
Warning
The Centers for Disease Control recommend seeing a doctor if a fever is higher than 100.4 degrees, bloody mucus is expelled while coughing, someone has a chronic heart or lung problem, difficulty breathing, recurring symptoms or symptoms that last for more than three weeks.
