what causes coughing
There are many causes of a productive cough, such as: 1  Viral illnesses. 2  It is normal to have a productive cough when you have a common cold. 3  Coughing is often triggered by mucus that drains down the back of the throat. 4  Infections. 5  An infection of the lungs or upper airway passages can cause a cough.here are many causes of a nonproductive cough, such as: 1  Viral illnesses. 2  Bronchospasm. 3  Allergies. 4  Medicines called ACE inhibitors that are used to control high blood pressure. 5  Exposure to dust, fumes, and chemicals in the work environment. 6  Asthma. 7  Blockage of the airway by an inhaled object, such as food or a pill.