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productive coughs

overview

a productive cough helps clear mucus (sputum) and foreign material from the airways. mucus may be made in the lungs because of bronchitis, pneumonia, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (copd).

colds and allergies may produce mucus that drains down the back of the throat (post-nasal drainage). home treatment may be all that is needed to provide relief if you have a productive cough and post-nasal drainage but do not have other symptoms.

a productive cough in a person who smokes is often a sign of lung damage. for smokers, the most effective way to treat a cough is to stop smoking. a change in the cough or in the colour or quantity of sputum may mean a bacterial lung infection.

a productive cough is a more serious when:

  • it produces sputum from the lungs (not post-nasal drainage).
  • the sputum is rust-coloured or contains bright red blood.
  • it lasts longer than 10 days.
  • it occurs with other symptoms. these may include:
    • fever and chills.
    • shortness of breath.
    • chest pain.
    • night sweats.
    • weight loss.
  • you have a known exposure to tuberculosis.

a doctor can evaluate your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.

credits

current as of: august 6, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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