The causes of chronic cough are very varied and are related to different systems.

In this article we explain what is fibrosis cystic.

Why the fibrosis cystic triggers cough?

It is a genetic condition that causes severe damage to the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. The mucus normally secreted in the respiratory tract, pancreas, digestive system, and reproductive system becomes thicker and stickier, clogging the ducts, causing frequent infections, and impairing the function of the affected organs.

The cough reflex is activated to eliminate the mucus blocking the airways. This buildup of mucus creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth, which irritates the bronchial tubes and increases the frequency and intensity of the cough.

The constant presence of mucus and infections generates persistent inflammation in the lungs, which sensitizes cough receptors, causing mild stimuli to produce coughing.

Over time, cystic fibrosis causes bronchiectasis where mucus accumulates, perpetuating the vicious cycle of coughing:

Mucus -> infection -> inflammation -> lung damage -> more mucus -> more cough

Cystic fibrosis is one of the possible causes of cough. If it persists for more than 8 weeks, we are considering a case of chronic cough.

Author: Eva Maroto

References:

1. Fathi H, Moon T, Donaldson J, Jackson W, Sedman P, Morice AH. Cough in adult cystic fibrosis: diagnosis and response to fundoplication. Cough. 2009 Jan 18; 5: 1. two: 10.1186/1745-9974-5-1. PMID: 19149907; PMCID: PMC2634760.