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Non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFBE) belongs to the spectrum of chronic suppurative lung diseases and is characterised by persistent wet/sputum-productive cough and airway dilatation. Morphological and structural changes in the airways lead to changes in airflow, impair breathing-induced mucus transport and sliding, and reduce the shear forces of cough. Moreover, mucus hyperviscosity contributes to compromised ciliary activity and the pathogenesis of the disease. This review highlights the role of cough in NCFBE, especially with respect to mucus clearance.

Cough is the principal backup mechanism when mucus clearance is impaired due to either or both reduced function of cilia- and breathing-induced mucus transport, as well as abnormal mucus. The efficiency of cough in overcoming the cohesive and adhesive properties of mucus is determined by both the forces applied to mucus by airflow and the …