Why do we drink water after coughing if our windpipe controls our respiratory system and the water goes down our esophagus?
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Depends on the type of cough. “Lung” coughs (deep down) won’t give the perception of needing a drink, but they can cause it. Once the deep lung coughs reach the end of the esophagus, they can “tickle” your throat, causing irritation. This is what makes someone want to drink to get rid of it. There could be a dry spot from coughing and air blowing through that “sticks”, and having liquid coarse over the area soothes it.
Other coughs are from phlegm being pulled out of the wind pipe and sitting in the back of your throat. Those coughs clear the mucus, but can leave a dry spot as well. Liquid will help clear the mucus and also cost the dry area, alleviating discomfort.
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