In an interview with radio Sputnik, Dr. Alexander Karabinenko, a respected pulmonologist from Russia, explained that a cough is not always a signal of an infectious illness. He emphasized that coughing can have a variety of origins, and understanding these differences is important for proper care. The doctor pointed out that lifestyle factors often play a significant role, and recognizing non-infectious triggers can prevent unnecessary alarm and guide people toward appropriate treatment when needed.
One common and well-documented cause of coughing is tobacco use. Dr. Karabinenko noted that smoking can provoke persistent throat irritation, particularly in long-term smokers. He described a phenomenon some patients experience as a morning throat clearance, sometimes referred to in everyday speech as the “morning toilet of the bronchi.” This phenomenon arises from mucus buildup and irritation that accumulate during the night and clear as the day begins. The doctor highlighted that the risk increases with the duration and intensity of smoking, and extended smoking histories can lead to chronic respiratory issues over time.
Chronic exposure to tobacco smoke is a well-known risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The physician indicated that individuals who smoke for several decades are more susceptible to developing COPD, a condition characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. COPD is a major cause of reduced quality of life and can require long-term management. It is essential for smokers to be aware of early warning signs, such as a cough that lasts for months, recurrent bronchitis, shortness of breath with minimal exertion, and wheezing. When these symptoms appear, a thorough medical evaluation becomes especially important to determine the underlying cause and to prevent progression. (Source: Sputnik interview)
Medications can also trigger coughing as a side effect. Dr. Karabinenko cited ACE inhibitors, a class of medicines commonly prescribed for high blood pressure and heart failure, as an example. While these drugs are effective for their intended purpose, coughing can occur in some patients as a reaction. It is not unusual for patients to notice a cough after starting an ACE inhibitor, and healthcare providers may adjust the treatment plan if the cough persists. This possibility underscores the importance of discussing all medications with a clinician before making changes on your own. (Attribution: Sputnik)
The pulmonologist also pointed out that coughs can be a sign of broader heart or circulatory conditions. Chronic heart failure, in particular, may present with coughing as one of several symptoms. When the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, fluid can accumulate and irritate the airways, leading to coughing episodes. This relationship does not imply that every cough signals heart disease, but it remains a critical reminder that persistent coughing deserves medical assessment, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, or sudden weight gain. (Source: Sputnik interview)
Given the variety of potential causes, Dr. Karabinenko stressed avoiding self-medication without medical consultation. A cough can reflect anything from a harmless irritation to a sign of a more serious illness. A comprehensive examination by a health professional can determine whether the symptoms are related to lifestyle factors, medication effects, or an underlying condition that requires targeted treatment. Patients are encouraged to seek an evaluation when coughing persists, recurs across weeks, or is accompanied by fever, chest pain, or coughing up blood. (Attribution: Sputnik)
Elena Shapkova, a former pulmonologist, added that exposure to dust and environmental irritants can contribute to chronic lung problems. Prolonged inhalation of dusty air may irritate the airways and increase the likelihood of cough and respiratory discomfort. This exposure risk is especially relevant in workplaces with poor ventilation or during activities that disturb dust, such as construction or mining. Continuous irritation from such environments can heighten the chance of developing respiratory issues over time, reinforcing the need for protective measures and medical checkups when symptoms arise. (Source: Sputnik)