Cough Reflex Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

An acute cough lasting less than 3 weeks is most commonly associated with viral infections and postnasal drip. The duration of the cough provides important clinical information; acute coughs typically arise from conditions that have a relatively short course. Viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, often present with acute cough as part of their symptomatology due to irritation of the respiratory tract. Additionally, postnasal drip, which can occur alongside these infections, contributes to coughing by causing mucus to drip down the back of the throat, stimulating the cough reflex.

The context of acute cough helps differentiate it from chronic conditions. Chronic bronchitis, COPD, and lung cancer usually result in symptoms that persist for longer durations, significantly more than the acute cough timeframe. Thus, the association of acute cough primarily with viral infections and postnasal drip makes this answer the most logical choice.