How Does
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A cough is an involuntary action of the body that helps clear the air passages from small foreign substances, irritants and excess secretions like phlegm and mucous.
Coughing protects the body by helping to rid it of particles, such as dust, germs and smoke, which can be harmful or can interfere with breathing or swallowing.
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Coughing is a reflex stimulated by nerve endings in the lungs or throat. These nerve endings sense that something is not quite right.
For instance, if a particle of food enters the windpipe (trachea) instead of the esophagus (which leads to the digestive system), the body will involuntary try to expel it to avoid choking.
The body also reacts to irritants, such as smoke, dust or tiny microbes found in everyday life, and tries to push them away though coughing.
The brain sends a signal to the air passages and "tells" it to get rid of whatever is in the way. The air passages open (inhalation), there is a forced exhalation and a violent release of breath from the lungs, usually accompanied by a sound, or cough.
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There are two main types of coughs. A dry cough, which ranges from an annoying tickle in the throat to a continuous hacking as a result of smoking or exposure to an environmental irritant, is most common.
A productive cough expels mucous or phlegm and is usually the sign of a cold, flu or a more serious condition.
Sometimes an over-the-counter product such as cough drops or cough syrup can help suppress a cough. Some health experts, however, believe that these products simply act to soothe an irritated throat rather than get rid of a cough.
If a cough lasts more than several weeks, consult a physician.
eHow Article: How Does a Cough Start?
