Cough

It is normal to cough occasionally. It helps remove irritants and secretions from the lungs and prevent infections.
However, a cough that lasts for weeks is usually caused by a medical problem. Often multiple causes are involved.
The following causes, alone or in combination, account for the majority of chronic cough:

1. Postnasal drip -
   When your nose and sinuses produce excess mucus, it can drip down your throat and trigger the cough reflex. This condition is also known as upper airway cough syndrome (UACS).
2. Asthma -
   Asthma-related coughs may come and go seasonally, occur after an upper respiratory tract infection, or worsen when exposed to cold air or certain chemicals or fragrances. In one type (cough asthma), coughing is the main symptom.
3. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) -
   In this common condition, stomach acid refluxes into the tube that connects the stomach and throat (esophagus). Constant irritation can lead to chronic coughing. Coughing, in turn, aggravates GERD, creating a vicious cycle.

You can prevent certain types of coughing by avoiding irritants known to cause coughing

Prevention of coughing due to infectious diseases includes:

• Get vaccinated against influenza, COVID-19, and pneumonia.disease avoidance.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.

1. Cough treatment depends on the cause of the cough. Your doctor may prescribe some type of antibiotic or antiviral if you have an infection, but most viral coughs don't require antivirals. They may suggest changes or prescribe proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers.
2. Water is good for coughs. Drinking it helps relieve coughs caused by throat irritation and dryness. Adding water to the air with a vaporizer or steam shower is another way to soothe a cough with water.
3. Quitting smoking and avoiding other irritants are also ways to relieve cough. These irritants include drugs, scents (such as perfumes and candles), smoke, or allergens.