What illness causes long-term cough with phlegm?
Apr 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Long-term cough with phlegm may be caused by chronic bronchitis, which leads to chronic nonspecific inflammation of the airways. This inflammation causes hyperplasia of the mucosal glands in the airways, resulting in chronic cough accompanied by white sputum. It could also be due to acute exacerbation of bronchial asthma, where bronchial mucosal constriction leads to recurrent coughing and sputum production. In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), airflow obstruction can result in frequent coughing and sputum production.
Generally, long-term cough with phlegm may be caused by chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other conditions. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic nonspecific inflammation of the airways can lead to hyperplasia of mucosal glands in the airway, resulting in increased secretions. This causes chronic coughing of varying severity, accompanied by the production of white sputum. It is recommended to take medications such as bromhexine tablets, keteling tablets, or carbocisteine oral solution under medical guidance to promote sputum clearance and improve symptoms.
2. Bronchial Asthma
During acute exacerbations of bronchial asthma, airway hyperresponsiveness leads to bronchial mucosal constriction and inflammation, increasing secretions and causing recurrent episodes of coughing, sputum production, and even chest tightness and breathing difficulties. It is recommended to use medications such as ambroxol hydrochloride tablets, budesonide/formoterol powder for inhalation, or amoxicillin capsules under medical supervision to control inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
3. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Due to poor physical resistance, respiratory tract infections triggered by external stimuli can reduce airway defenses. When damage and narrowing occur in the airway lining, airflow becomes obstructed, leading to frequent severe coughing and sputum production. It is advised to take medications such as montelukast sodium chewable tablets, aminophylline tablets, or acetylcysteine granules under medical guidance to thin mucus, facilitate sputum expulsion, and relieve symptoms.
In addition, tuberculosis could also be a possible cause. If symptoms persist without improvement over time and are accompanied by general fatigue, fever, or similar signs, prompt medical evaluation is necessary.
