TY - CHAP M1 - Book, Section TI - Cough A1 - Fanta, Christopher H. A2 - Jameson, J. Larry A2 - Fauci, Anthony S. A2 - Kasper, Dennis L. A2 - Hauser, Stephen L. A2 - Longo, Dan L. A2 - Loscalzo, Joseph PY - 2018 T2 - Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 20e AB - Cough performs an essential protective function for human airways and lungs. Without an effective cough reflex, we are at risk for retained airway secretions and aspirated material predisposing to infection, atelectasis, and respiratory compromise. At the other extreme, excessive coughing can be exhausting; can be complicated by emesis, syncope, muscular pain, or rib fractures; can aggravate low back pain, abdominal or inguinal hernias, and urinary incontinence; and can be a major impediment to social interactions. Cough is often a clue to the presence of respiratory disease. In many instances, cough is an expected and accepted manifestation of disease, as in acute respiratory tract infection. However, persistent cough in the absence of other respiratory symptoms commonly causes patients to seek medical attention. SN - PB - McGraw-Hill Education CY - New York, NY Y2 - 2024/04/18 UR - accesspharmacy.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1155942996 ER -