Click topics belowDealing with FeelingsStaying HealthyRecipesEveryday Illnesses & InjuriesHow the Body WorksGrowing UpKids' TalkPeople, Places and Things that Help MeWatch OutThe Game ClosetKids' Health ProblemsWord! A Glossary

KidsHealth > Kids > WORD! A Glossary of Medical Words > C > Word! Cough


 

Cough

(En espaƱol: Tos)

Say: kof

You cough, but why? A cough is a reflex that helps your body clear your throat and lungs. A cough is a common symptom in people who have asthma, although it can occur for many other reasons, like when you have a cold. Someone who has asthma may cough because the airways are irritated (narrow, swollen, and filled with mucus). For some kids, coughing may be the only clue that they have asthma. The coughing may happen only at night or while exercising.




Email Us! Express Email!



Note: All information on KidsHealth is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

©1995-2008 The Nemours Foundation. All rights reserved.