Viral Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI): This is the most common cause of cough and cold symptoms, often resulting from viruses such as rhinovirus, coronavirus, adenovirus, and others. The symptoms typically include runny nose, sneezing, cough, and sometimes fever.

Allergic Rhinitis: This condition can present with similar symptoms to the common cold, including cough, runny nose, and sneezing, but is triggered by allergens rather than viruses.
Acute Bronchitis: Often follows a viral upper respiratory infection, acute bronchitis can cause a persistent cough, sometimes with mucus production.
Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses can cause cough, facial pain, and nasal congestion, and can be viral or bacterial in origin.

Pneumonia: Although less common, pneumonia is a potentially life-threatening condition that can present with cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. Bacterial pneumonia, in particular, requires prompt antibiotic treatment.
Influenza: Especially in high-risk populations (e.g., the elderly, young children, and those with certain chronic conditions), influenza can lead to severe illness and complications like pneumonia.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough): A highly contagious bacterial infection that can cause a severe cough, often with a characteristic whoop sound, and is particularly dangerous in infants.

Tuberculosis (TB): A chronic bacterial infection that can cause a persistent cough, among other symptoms. Although rare in many parts of the world, TB is an important consideration in certain populations or in individuals with exposure history.
Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that can lead to recurrent respiratory infections and chronic cough in children and young adults.
Foreign Body Aspiration: Although more common in children, aspiration of a foreign body can cause sudden onset of cough and respiratory distress in anyone, and requires immediate medical attention.