Even if the cause is not serious, a dry cough can be very irritating. The good news is? Dry cough can be treated with both medication and home remedies. Dry coughs are non-productive and do not produce mucus. They can also be accompanied by a tickling or scratching sensation in the throat.
This article will explore the causes of a dry cough, how to diagnose it, and the best ways to treat it, both medically and naturally.
Dry Cough
A Dry Cough is a Non-Productive Cough that does not produce phlegm. This reflex action helps to clear the airways from irritants. A dry cough can be chronic and can last longer than a productive cough that helps to clear mucus.
Dry Cough: What Causes It?
The causes are divided into two categories:
Dry Cough: Common causes
- Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD): Acid reflux may irritate the throat and a dry, chronic cough. GERD symptoms include heartburn, a sour taste, and a burning sensation in the chest. Treatments include Antacids and dietary changes.
- Respiratory Tract Infections (RTIs): Includes the common cold, acute bronchitis or pneumonia, tuberculosis, and pertussis.
- Post-Infectious Cough: The dry cough can persist after the primary infection is gone. It lasts from a couple of days to several weeks.
- Asthma is a leading cause of chronic coughing in children and adults. Asthma is often accompanied by wheezing and shortness of breath, as well as a tightening sensation in the chest. Inhaling corticosteroids and bronchodilators can be used to treat asthma.
Dry Cough: Less Common Causes
- Environmental Irritants: Smoke pollution dust, or dry air, can cause coughing in sensitive individuals.
- ACE inhibitors: Common medications for high blood pressure (e.g. lisinopril) can cause persistent dry coughs in up to 35 percent of patients.
- Foreign body Aspiration: A sudden onset of coughing while eating can indicate obstruction or choking.
- Pertussis (Whooping Cough): An infection that causes intense, dry coughing fits.
- Psychogenic cough: This is a persistent cough that occurs most often in children.
- Chronic lung diseases: Conditions such as interstitial pulmonary disease, sarcoidosis or bronchiectasis, or cystic fibrosis, can also cause a dry cough.
How is Dry Cough Diagnosed?
You may be evaluated by your doctor in several ways, depending on the symptoms you present.
- Chest CT: To check for lung or infection issues
- Spirometry: A lung function test
- Pulmonary function tests (PFTs): To evaluate breathing capacity
- Testing for Allergens: To eliminate environmental or food allergies
After identifying the cause, you can begin the appropriate treatment for a dry cough.
What are the treatments for a dry cough?
1. Medicines
- Antitussives (Cough Suppressants): Best to provide short-term relief. Look for dextromethorphan-based syrups.
- Lozenges: Often include soothing agents such as menthol or antibacterial compounds that reduce throat irritation.
- Cough Syrups or Linctus: These reduce the urge for coughing and soothe the throat lining.
- Antihistamines: Are particularly useful when allergies are to blame. Antihistamines of the first generation may help you sleep better.
2. Home Remedies
- Honey + Warm water + Lemon: Natural cough suppressant. Take 1-2 teaspoons of honey before going to bed. (Safe for children older than 12 months).
- Warm liquids: Herbal brews and warm broths soothe throat inflammation.
- Saltwater Rinse: Add 1/2 tsp of salt to warm water, and gargle two times daily to reduce irritation.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments
- Smoking or second-hand smoke should be avoided
- Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day to stay hydrated
- Use a Humidifier for moisturizing dry indoor air
- Avoid exposure to dust and allergens
- Air purifiers and mattress covers can help allergy-proof your bedroom.
Complications that can arise from an untreated dry cough
An untreated persistent dry cough can lead to:
- Insomnia
- Headaches or fainting
- Incontinence (especially among women)
- Vomiting and sore abdominal muscles
- Subconjunctival hemorrhage (red eyes)
When Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Seek medical advice if:
- The cough persists for more than 10 days
- You may experience chest discomfort or shortness of breath.
- You can see blood in the mucus
- You may have underlying diseases such as asthma or GERD
- The cough gets worse at night
- If your child is under 6 months and develops a persistent cold
- You may develop a fever or hoarseness
Final Words
It’s important not to ignore persistent symptoms, even though a dry cough may be an inconvenience. Relief is possible with the right diagnosis and treatment, whether medical or natural. Consult your healthcare provider to get a personalized treatment for dry cough, based on symptoms and medical history.
