As a respiratory health specialist, I have dedicated my career to understanding the intricate workings of the respiratory system and the various conditions that can affect it. One of the most common symptoms that I often encounter is a coughing attack. A cough is a natural reflex that helps clear the airways of irritants and secretions, but when it becomes severe and persistent, it can be quite distressing and indicative of an underlying issue. Let's delve into the various factors that can cause a coughing attack.

1. Common Cold and Flu: The most common cause of a cough is a viral infection such as the common cold or the flu. These viral infections cause inflammation in the throat and airways, which triggers the cough reflex.

2. Allergies: Allergic reactions to substances like pollen, dust, or pet dander can lead to inflammation in the airways and subsequent coughing. This is especially prevalent in individuals with asthma or allergic rhinitis.

3. Postnasal Drip: Also known as chronic upper airway cough syndrome, postnasal drip occurs when mucus from the nasal passages drips down the back of the throat, causing irritation and leading to coughing.

**4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):** Acid reflux can cause stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus and sometimes reach the throat, which can irritate the airways and provoke a cough.

5. Bronchitis: This is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. The inflammation leads to excess mucus production, which can cause a cough.

6. Pneumonia: A more serious condition, pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It often presents with a persistent cough, sometimes with phlegm that may be bloody.

7. Irritants: Exposure to environmental irritants like tobacco smoke, air pollution, or chemical fumes can cause the airways to become inflamed and lead to coughing.

8. Certain Medications: Some drugs, particularly those used to treat high blood pressure, can cause a dry, persistent cough as a side effect.

9. Lung Cancer: In rare cases, a chronic, unexplained cough can be a symptom of lung cancer. This is more likely in individuals with a history of smoking or exposure to other carcinogens.

10. Cystic Fibrosis: This genetic disorder causes the mucus in various organs, including the lungs, to become thick and sticky, leading to frequent lung infections and a persistent cough.

11. Tuberculosis: An infectious disease caused by bacteria, tuberculosis can lead to a persistent cough that is often accompanied by other symptoms like fever, night sweats, and weight loss.

**12. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):** This is a group of lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems, often including a persistent cough.

In the case of a cough that persists beyond the typical duration of a cold or flu, or one that is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough examination, take a detailed history, and may order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

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However, a cough can outlast all those other symptoms, perhaps because the air passages in your lungs remain sensitive and inflamed.When this occurs, it's called chronic upper airway cough syndrome (or postnasal drip). A more serious respiratory tract infection is pneumonia, which can be caused by bacteria or viruses.Jul 18, 2012read more >>