Cough

Cough

A cough ( pronunciation Latin: tussis), is a sudden and often repetitively occurring reflex which helps to clear the large breathing passages from secretions, irritants, foreign particles and microbes. The cough reflex consists of three phases: an inhalation, a forced exhalation against a closed glottis, and a violent release of air from the lungs following opening of the glottis, usually accompanied by a distinctive sound. Coughing can happen voluntarily as well as involuntarily.

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Famous quotes containing the word cough:

    All, men my madmen, the unwholesome wind
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    Despite my asbestos gloves,
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