Cough

Cough is a rapid expulsion of air from the lungs in order to clear the lung airways of fluids, mucus, or material. Excessive coughing may indicate an underlying disease or disorder. Some coughs are dry, while others are considered productive. A productive cough is one that brings up mucus. Mucus is also called phlegm or sputum. Acute coughs usually begin suddenly and are often due to a cold, flu, or sinus infection. They usually resolve within 3 – 8 weeks. Chronic coughs last longer than 8 weeks.