Cough sounds

Cough is an important protective reflex that is essential to protect the airways yet can also signify disease as a symptom of airway disease. It is the most common symptom that results in new medical consultations at least in regions where data is available. Both children and adults can cough for a myriad of reasons. This ranges from cough associated with simple viral infections to cough secondary to serious airway or lung disorders. Consequently evaluating causes of cough can be quite challenging. The mechanism of cough involves the central and peripheral neural systems, muscular and airway mechanisms. The sound of cough is influenced by various physiological factors such as age and sex and by pathological factors such as muscle weakness, airway obstruction and excessive mucus production. This chapter briefly reviews factors influencing cough sounds and recorders. As cough is a cardinal symptom of airway diseases and many respiratory illnesses, a description of typical cough quality in various respiratory conditions is provided. We also briefly discuss the availability and developments in software, apps and cough measurement devices that unfold a new exciting field of study and research in our era of advancing technology