Cough: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Cough: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Treatment

by Donatella Mutolo

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3134 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	315 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

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Cough is a common symptom that can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions. It is a reflex action that helps to clear the airways of mucus, dust, and other irritants. In most cases, cough is a self-limiting condition that does not require treatment. However, in some cases, cough can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as pneumonia, asthma, or chronic bronchitis.

Pathophysiology of Cough

Cough is a complex reflex that is initiated by the stimulation of receptors in the airways. These receptors can be stimulated by a variety of factors, including:

• Inhalation of irritants, such as smoke, dust, or pollen
• Infection of the airways, such as pneumonia or bronchitis
• Inflammation of the airways, such as asthma or chronic bronchitis
• Congestion of the airways, such as with a cold or flu
• Other factors, such as acid reflux or certain medications

When these receptors are stimulated, they send a signal to the cough center in the brain. The cough center then sends a signal to the muscles of the chest and abdomen, which contract to expel air from the lungs.

Diagnosis of Cough

The diagnosis of cough is based on a patient's symptoms and a physical examination. The doctor will ask the patient about the nature of the cough, including its duration, frequency, and severity. The doctor will also ask about any other symptoms that the patient is experiencing, such as shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain.

The doctor may also perform a physical examination to look for signs of underlying conditions, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. The doctor may also listen to the patient's lungs with a stethoscope to listen for wheezing or other abnormal sounds.

In some cases, the doctor may Free Download additional tests to confirm the diagnosis of cough, such as a chest X-ray or a sputum culture.

Treatment of Cough

The treatment of cough depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, cough can be treated with simple measures, such as:

• Rest
• Plenty of fluids
• Over-the-counter cough suppressants or expectorants

In some cases, cough may require prescription medication, such as antibiotics for pneumonia or asthma medications for asthma.

Prevention of Cough

There are a number of things that you can do to prevent cough, including:

• Avoiding exposure to irritants, such as smoke, dust, and pollen
• Getting vaccinated against common respiratory infections, such as influenza and pneumonia
• Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze

Cough is a common symptom that can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions. In most cases, cough is a self-limiting condition that does not require treatment. However, in some cases, cough can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. If you have a cough that is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain, it is important to see a doctor for evaluation.

Cough: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Treatment

by Donatella Mutolo

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3134 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	315 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE