as the airways begin recovering and clearing accumulated mucus. Over time, respiratory function and other health risks can improve.
If you have smoked for years and have a persistent cough or phlegm, it is worth discussing your symptoms with a healthcare professional.
Asthma Can Cause Cough and Mucus Many people associate asthma primarily with wheezing and shortness of breath.
But asthma can also cause persistent coughing.
Some people have a form called cough-variant asthma, in which cough is a particularly prominent symptom.
Asthma-related symptoms may become worse:
At night
During exercise
Around allergens
In cold air
After respiratory infections
Around smoke or strong odors
Some people may produce mucus along with the cough.
If you repeatedly experience coughing, chest tightness, wheezing, or shortness of breath, particularly in specific situations, an evaluation for asthma may be appropriate.
Asthma is treatable, and identifying triggers and using appropriate treatment can help control symptoms.
