Cough and respiratory symptoms
Cough is the body’s natural way of clearing the airways of irritating substances and secretions. It can be dry or mucus-producing, acute or chronic (lasting over 8 weeks).
The most common causes are respiratory infections (common cold, bronchitis), asthma, allergies, reflux or side effects of medicines (e.g. ACE inhibitors). A persistent cough always requires investigation.
Treatment depends on the cause: for infections, rest and fluids; for asthma, inhaled medicines; for allergy-related cough, antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids. A persistent or bloody cough requires urgent medical assessment.
Practitioners – Cough and respiratory symptoms
Aani Leppänen
Occupational health
Aapo Tonder
Occupational health
Aaro Kujanen
Psychology
Aaro Liukkonen
Occupational health
Aaro Vahtera
Psychology
Aatu Rajamäki
Occupational health
Ada Meriläinen
Occupational health
Adalmiina Aulakoski
Occupational health
Agneta Ahlfors
Psychology
Ahti Vainio
Occupational health
Frequently asked questions
When is a cough concerning?
See a doctor without delay if the cough contains blood, is associated with shortness of breath or chest pain, has lasted more than 8 weeks, or is accompanied by unexplained weight loss or night sweats. These may indicate a serious illness.
Can reflux cause a cough?
Yes. Acid from the stomach rising into the oesophagus (reflux) can irritate the larynx and trachea, causing a chronic dry cough. This is common even without typical reflux symptoms (burning behind the breastbone). Reflux-related cough often improves when reflux is treated.
How does asthma affect the airways?
Asthma causes inflammation and narrowing of the bronchi, leading to wheezing, cough (especially at night and in the morning) and shortness of breath. Symptoms vary from day to day and often worsen during infections, exposure to allergens or exertion. Asthma can be treated effectively with inhaled medicines.