Which of the following is a characteristic feature of a cough associated with lisinopril?

The characteristic feature of a cough associated with lisinopril is that it is dry and persistent. This type of cough typically arises as a side effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors like lisinopril. The mechanism behind this cough involves the accumulation of bradykinin, a substance that can irritate the respiratory tract when ACE is inhibited. Unlike a productive cough, which brings up mucus and phlegm, a dry cough does not produce such secretions and can be bothersome enough to potentially interrupt sleep and daily activities.

In contrast, other types of coughs are differentiated by their onset and characteristics; for example, productive coughs involve mucus discharge, acute and sudden onset coughs are typically linked to infections or acute irritants, and nocturnal aggravation can be associated with conditions such as asthma or heart failure rather than an ACE inhibitor side effect. This understanding of the nature of the cough helps in identifying lisinopril's side effects among other potential causes of cough.