A chesty cough is a type of cough where phlegm is produced to help clear your airways. This is in contrast to a dry cough, which is tickly and doesn't produce mucus.
Understanding Chesty Coughs
Here's a breakdown of what defines a chesty cough:
- Phlegm Production: The key characteristic is the production of phlegm, also known as mucus. This phlegm is generated in the lungs and airways.
- Purpose: The cough reflex is triggered to help expel this phlegm, thus clearing the airways.
- Cause: Chesty coughs are often associated with infections like colds, flu, or bronchitis, where the body produces extra mucus.
- Duration: According to the reference material, most coughs, including chesty coughs, clear up within 3 weeks and don't usually require treatment.
- Smoking: If you are a smoker, the reference material indicates that quitting smoking is likely to help improve your cough.
Chesty Cough vs. Dry Cough
| Feature | Chesty Cough | Dry Cough |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm | Produced | Not produced |
| Sensation | May feel wet or congested | Tickly, scratchy |
| Possible Causes | Infections (cold, flu, bronchitis) | Allergies, asthma, irritants |
