Does pneumonia cause cough?

Pneumonia inflames lung tissue and can increase mucus, which activates the cough reflex as the body tries to clear the airways. The cough may occur with fever, chills, chest discomfort, shortness of breath or fatigue. Its sound or the colour of mucus cannot diagnose pneumonia on its own. Viral infections, asthma, reflux and other conditions can also cause cough, so the overall pattern matters.

Rest, drink fluids if appropriate for you, and avoid smoke or other airway irritants. Cover coughs and wash your hands to reduce spread of respiratory infections. If a clinician diagnoses pneumonia, follow the treatment plan and finish prescribed medicines as directed. Avoid taking someone else’s antibiotics, and ask a pharmacist before using cough medicines if you take regular medication or have a long-term condition.

Arrange prompt medical advice for a new cough with fever, breathlessness, chest pain, confusion or worsening weakness. Seek emergency help for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, coughing blood, fainting or inability to stay awake. A cough that persists or steadily worsens also deserves review, even if other symptoms seem mild.

Could my cough fit pneumonia or another respiratory condition? Do I need an examination or further testing? Which treatments can ease the cough safely? What symptoms would mean I should seek urgent help?