Dry Cough: Symptoms and Treatments
A cough is a sign that something in the upper respiratory system is irritating it, such as mucus, phlegm, outside particles or inflammation. It’s a natural defence mechanism for the lungs, throat, or nasal passages. Mainly, there are two types of cough productive and non-productive.
A productive cough or wet cough produces phlegm and mucus, clearing it from the lungs. A non-productive cough, also known as a dry cough, doesn't produce phlegm or mucus.
A dry cough can be caused by a tickling feeling in the throat. Dry coughs can happen as a result of a cold or flu. Chronic dry coughs can also be caused by other illnesses, such as:
- GERD
- Heart failure
- Lung cancer
Symptoms of Dry Cough
- Tickling Sensation in the Throat A persistent feeling that prompts coughing but doesn’t produce mucus.
- Hoarseness or Voice Changes Repeated coughing can strain the vocal cords, leading to a raspy or hoarse voice.
- Worsening at Night Dry coughs often intensify when lying down, disrupting sleep.
- Throat Irritation A constant cough can cause soreness or rawness in the throat.
- Coughing Fits Episodes of uncontrollable coughing, triggered by talking, laughing, or exposure to irritants.
- Breathlessness Frequent or severe coughing can make it hard to catch your breath.
- Fatigue Persistent coughing can exhaust the body, leading to tiredness.
- Chest Discomfort Prolonged coughing may cause chest tightness or mild pain.
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Get A Second OpinionCauses of Dry Cough
A dry cough, often persistent and non-productive, can be caused by various factors, ranging from environmental irritants to underlying health conditions. Below are some common causes and conditions associated with dry cough:
- Asthma: Chronic airway inflammation that narrows airways, with cough variant asthma often presenting as a chronic dry cough.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Long-term acid reflux irritates the esophagus, triggering a cough reflex.
- COVID-19: This respiratory illness caused by SARS-CoV-2 may lead to persistent dry cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
- Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A condition where scar tissue forms in the lungs, making breathing progressively harder.
- Upper Respiratory Infections: Common colds and flu often transition from a wet cough to a dry cough during recovery.
- Environmental Irritants: Cigarette smoke, allergens, and air pollution frequently cause irritation leading to dry coughs.
- Lung Cancer: In some cases, chronic dry cough may be a symptom of lung cancer.
Other conditions that may cause dry cough are:
- Bronchitis
- Croup
- Pneumonia
- Smoking
- Vocal cord dysfunction
- Whooping cough
What is the Difference Between Dry Cough Vs Wet Cough?
|
Aspect |
Dry Cough |
Wet Cough |
|
Description |
Non-productive; does not produce mucus or phlegm. |
Productive; accompanied by mucus or phlegm. |
|
Sound |
Harsh, tickling sound, often irritating. |
Gurgling or rattling sound due to mucus movement. |
|
Causes |
- Viral infections (e.g., cold, flu) |
- Respiratory infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia) |
|
- Allergies or asthma |
- Chronic conditions like COPD |
|
|
- GERD (acid reflux) |
- Smoking or environmental pollutants |
|
|
- Irritants like smoke or dust |
- Postnasal drip |
|
|
- Certain medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors) |
||
|
Symptoms |
- Tickling sensation in the throat |
- Presence of mucus or phlegm |
|
- Worsens at night or with irritants |
- Chest congestion |
|
|
- Persistent throat irritation |
- Frequent clearing of the throat |
|
|
Treatment |
- Stay hydrated |
- Stay hydrated |
|
- Use throat lozenges or honey |
- Use expectorants to loosen mucus |
|
|
- Address underlying causes (e.g., GERD, allergies) |
- Treat infections or chronic conditions |
Diagnosis of Dry Cough
On the first visit with the doctor, they will conduct a physical examination to determine the cause of the cough. It will involve listening to the chest sounds for congestion and inspecting the throat for infection or irritation. He might also recommend a few imaging tests to rule out the major underlying issues.
- Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, and bronchoscopies are used to examine for infections and the condition of the windpipe and airways.
- Spirometry: The patient will need to breathe into a plastic instrument throughout this test. The goal is to assess lung function and diagnose diseases such as asthma.
Dry Cough Treatments
Dry cough might be difficult to treat. Cough irritates the airways once they've become extremely sensitive, creating a vicious cycle. However, the doctor will prescribe you a range of over-the-counter (OTC) treatments that can help relieve your cough.
- There are 2 types of OTC cough medications : cough suppressants and cough expectorants.
- Cough suppressants: help block the cough reflex. Mainly, it is helpful for dry coughs.
- Expectorants: It is helpful for wet cough. This works by thinning the mucus in the airway.
- Decongestants: This is an OTC medication that helps treat congestion in the nose and sinuses.
The common best antibiotic for dry cough may include:
- Amoxicillin
- Azithromycin
- Doxycycline
Antibiotics are not typically used for treating a dry cough unless the underlying cause is a bacterial infection, such as bacterial pneumonia or bronchitis.
If over-the-counter cough treatments don't work, contact the doctor. A doctor may give the following medications, depending on the underlying ailment that is producing the cough:
- Bronchitis
- Oral antihistamine
- Inhaled corticosteroids
- Antibiotics
- Acid blockers
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Book an AppointmentHome Remedies for Dry Cough
A persistent cough can be managed with simple and effective home remedies. Here are some tried-and-true methods to ease symptoms and promote recovery:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your throat moist and alleviate scratchiness, especially during cold, dry months.
- Honey: A natural anti-inflammatory, honey helps soothe throat discomfort, reduce mucus, and ease soreness.
- Saltwater Gargle: Dissolve 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Gargling soothes the throat and reduces swelling.
- Herbs: Anti-inflammatory herbs like thyme or chamomile can reduce throat swelling and boost your immune system.
- Steam Inhalation: Inhale steam to moisten dry nasal passages, soothe irritation, and relieve mild coughs.
- Gargling: Regular salt water gargling reduces swelling and provides relief from common cold symptoms.
- Dry cough and chest pain home remedy: Drinking warm honey and ginger tea, along with steam inhalation, can help soothe a dry cough and alleviate mild chest pain.
These natural remedies for dry cough are easy to use and can help manage your cough effectively. Stay consistent and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist.
When to visit a Doctor?
People who have dry coughs that get worse, don't go away, or cause them to cough up blood or green mucus should seek medical attention. It's also important to contact a doctor if a dry cough is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
- Wheezing
- Feeling of something being stuck in the throat
- Breathing problems or shortness of breath
- Swallowing difficulties.
