Just re-watched the debate

[soldierant]

15. I've had exactly that cough

as a result of post-nasal drip from allergies. It's infuriating. You know the mucus is down there but you just can't get it out. Yes, respiratory illnesses can also produce it.

There is a technique of coughig that does get it out, but requires time and patience and you couldn't really do it during a debate. The trick is to start by exhaling, then coughing, then inhale and exhale again just a wee bit less and cough again. Repeat, each time exhaling just a little less. By the time you can inhale and cough, you should be able to get it all. But - as I say - you couldn't do it in a debate. It can't be completed in 2 minutes, and that would be your longest interval without having to speak.