A cough occurs when cells along the air passages get irritated and trigger a chain of events. The result is air in the lungs is forced out under high pressure. A person can choose to cough (a voluntary process), or the body may cough on its own (an involuntary process).

Does coughing come from your lungs?

Coughing can propel air and particles out of your lungs and throat at speeds close to 50 miles per hour. Occasional coughing is normal as it helps clear your throat and airway of germs, mucus and dust.

Where does a cough originate?

You cough when your cough receptors become irritated. You have cough receptors in your main breathing tubes (airways) and your smaller airways. You also have cough receptors in your throat, diaphragm (the large muscle between the abdomen and lungs) and your stomach. These receptors protect your lungs.