Coughing is a natural reflex that helps protect the lungs from irritants and clears them of mucus and other particles. However, when coughing becomes persistent or severe, it can be a symptom of various health issues. This article explores the different types of coughs, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options, including products available at Hemlock Pharmacy.

Types of Coughs

Coughs are generally categorized based on their duration and the nature of the cough:

• Acute Cough: Lasts less than three weeks and is often caused by common respiratory infections such as the cold or flu.
• Subacute Cough: Lasts between three to eight weeks and can be a lingering effect of an infection or other temporary condition.
• Chronic Cough: Lasts longer than eight weeks and may be due to conditions like asthma, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
• Dry Cough: Feels ticklish and doesn’t produce mucus. Often associated with viral infections, allergies, or irritants.
• Wet Cough: Also known as a productive cough, it is characterized by the production of phlegm or mucus. Commonly seen in bacterial infections and chronic lung diseases.
• Nocturnal Cough: Occurs mainly at night and may interfere with sleep. It can be a sign of asthma, postnasal drip, or heart failure.
• Whooping Cough: A serious infection caused by Bordetella pertussis, producing a cough ending in a high-pitched whoop sound.

Causes

The causes of coughs can vary widely:

• Infections: Such as colds, flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
• Chronic Lung Conditions: Including asthma, bronchitis, and COPD.
• Environmental Factors: Like smoke, dust, and other pollutants.
• Allergies: Triggered by pollen, pet dander, or mold.
• Medications: ACE inhibitors, for example, can lead to a dry cough.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Acid reflux can irritate the throat and cause coughing.
• Smoking: A leading cause of chronic cough due to irritation and damage to the respiratory tract.
• Postnasal Drip: Mucus dripping down the throat from the back of the nose, often due to sinusitis or rhinitis.

Symptoms

Symptoms accompanying a cough can provide clues to its cause:

• Mucus: A wet cough may bring up clear, yellow, or green phlegm.
• Breathlessness: Difficulty breathing may accompany a cough with asthma or COPD.
• Sore Throat: Often associated with acute respiratory infections.
• Fatigue: Can result from the physical exertion of chronic coughing.
• Chest Pain: Persistent coughing can cause muscle strain and chest discomfort.
• Wheezing: A high-pitched sound during breathing, often associated with asthma or bronchitis.
• Fever: May indicate an underlying infection.

Treatment Options

Treatment for coughs should address the underlying cause:

• Infections: May require rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies such as decongestants and cough suppressants.
• Chronic Conditions: Often managed with prescription medications, inhalers, and lifestyle changes.
• Allergies: Treated with antihistamines, nasal sprays, or allergy shots.
• GERD: Managed with dietary changes, antacids, and medications that reduce stomach acid.
• Environmental Factors: Reducing exposure to irritants and using air purifiers can help.

Hemlock Pharmacy Products

• Halls Cough & Sore Throat Drops: These drops provide temporary relief for coughs and sore throats. They come in various flavors and contain ingredients that help soothe irritation and suppress coughing.
• LemoCalm Cold and Flu Relief Powder: This oral solution helps relieve symptoms of colds and flu, including aches, sore throat, headache, and nasal congestion.
• Aerocort Inhaler: Contains a combination of corticosteroids and bronchodilators, making it suitable for treating symptoms of asthma and other respiratory conditions that cause coughing.

When to Seek Medical Attention

It’s important to see a healthcare provider if:

• The cough persists for more than three weeks.
• You experience symptoms like chest pain, wheezing, or coughing up blood.
• The cough is accompanied by a high fever or unexplained weight loss.
• There is a significant change in the nature of the cough, such as a new onset of a chronic cough.

Conclusion

Understanding the type of cough and its associated symptoms is key to finding the right treatment. For persistent or severe coughs, consult a healthcare professional. Products like those from Hemlock Pharmacy can provide relief for various cough symptoms, but they should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the root cause of the cough.