Below is a list of other medical conditions that may be the underlying causes of a persistent cough:

• Respiratory infections
• Pneumonia or bronchitis
• Fungal, bacterial and viral infections
• Allergies
• Inhaled irritant, foreign body or postnasal drip
• Cigarette smoke or exposure to noxious gases
• Gastric reflux
• GERD (Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) – happens when contents of the stomach (usually acidic) rises into the oesophagus, triggering a persistent cough.

Even though the initial reaction may be to treat the cough, persons are advised to visit a medical professional in order to treat and correct the underlying reason for the cough as the cough will recur if the underlying factor is not fixed. However, here are a few remedies that may work to soothe the general cough:

• Tea and Other Liquids – drinking tea helps to moisten the throat as well as opens the airways. Liquids are useful in that they help to break up phlegm, leading to a more productive cough.
• Hot Shower – the steam produced from a hot shower helps to moisten the throat as it is breathed in.
• Vitamins – vitamins E, C and A are especially effective for a cough.
• Smoking – avoid smoking or smoke in general as the inhaled smoke dries the throat, encouraging the cough.
• Juices – sipping on carrot juice or grape juice sweetened with honey throughout the day helps ease a cough.
• Sleep – utilising a vaporizer and raising the head while sleeping are very effective methods in easing a cough.

For specific underlying causes, the cough associated may be eased by different methods. For example, viral and bacterial infections that trigger coughs may be treated with rest, increased fluid intake and the use of a cough suppressant. In the event of a bacterial infection, antibiotics are prescribed. More severe underlying factors such as congestive heart failure or pneumonia will necessitate professional medical care and hospitalization and in some cases, life support measures.