Wet Cough: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is a wet cough?

A wet cough is a type of cough where mucus is expelled from the airways. It can be caused by various conditions such as a cold, bronchitis, pneumonia, or other respiratory infections.

Causes of wet cough

• Cold and flu. These illnesses often involve inflammation of the airways, leading to mucus production and a wet cough.
• Bronchitis. Inflammation of the bronchi causes swelling and increased mucus production, leading to a wet cough.
• Pneumonia. Lung infections can lead to significant mucus buildup in the airways.
• Allergies. Allergic reactions can cause inflammation of the respiratory lining and mucus production.
• Chronic lung diseases. Chronic bronchitis or asthma can cause persistent wet coughs.

Symptoms

• Mucus production. The primary symptom is a cough that produces mucus, which may be clear, yellow, or green.
• Shortness of breath. A wet cough may be accompanied by difficulty breathing.
• Chest pain. Some cases may involve pain or discomfort in the chest when coughing.
• Fever. Infections often lead to a rise in body temperature.

Treatment methods

• Cough suppressants. Medications such as syrups and tablets that contain cough suppressants can reduce the intensity of the cough.
• Expectorants. These medications help thin mucus and make it easier to expel from the airways.
• Antibiotics. If the cough is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the underlying condition.
• Inhalations. Inhalation treatments with saline or medicated solutions can help ease breathing and facilitate mucus clearance.
• Rest and hydration. It's important to rest and drink plenty of fluids to maintain hydration and aid in mucus expulsion.