What is Dry Cough?
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
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Get A Second OpinionWhat are the causes of dry cough?
Chronic dry coughs are usually caused by irritation from cigarette smoke, environmental irritants, allergies, postnasal drip, or asthma. A dry, hacking cough can also be caused by a number of chronic lung conditions.
There are various types of Cough that can cause a viral infection in your throat.
Some of the common causes of dry cough are listed below:
- Asthma : Asthma It's a condition in which the airways swell and becomes narrowed. There's a type of asthma called cough variant asthma that includes chronic dry cough as one of its main symptoms.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease : It is a type of acid reflux that lasts for a long time. It occurs when stomach acid runs back up into the oesophagus, which connects your mouth to your stomach on a regular basis. Stomach acid might irritate your oesophagus, causing your cough reflex to be triggered.
- COVID-19 : It's a respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. A person may experience chest pain and difficulties breathing over time.
- Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis : It's a condition in which scar tissue forms inside the lungs of a person. Breathing in the air becomes increasingly difficult as the scar tissue grows. The term idiopathic refers to the fact that doctors are unsure of the actual source of the ailment.
- Upper respiratory infections : It can cause acute coughing due to common cold and flu. The cough starts as productive, i.e., a wet cough, then becomes dry as a person recovers from the infection.
- Lung Cancer : Sometimes chronic and dry cough can 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 Diagnosis for 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.
What are the treatments for dry cough?
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.
- 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 AppointmentWhat are some home remedies for dry cough?
- Hydration : When you have a dry cough, liquids are important, especially during the cold, dry months of the year. They keep the throat moist, which might help relieve scratchiness.
- Honey : Honey has anti-inflammatory qualities that can help relieve throat discomfort. It can also aid in the breakdown of mucus and the relief of sore throats.
- Saltwater gargle : For every 8 ounces of water, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Warm water is preferable to cold water for a sore throat because the warmth soothes the throat better. However, if you prefer cold water, it will not affect the efficiency of the treatment.
- Herbs : Many herbs contain anti-inflammatory qualities that may decrease the rate of throat swelling. Herbs are also high in antioxidants, which can help the immune system function better.
- Steam Inhalation : Most people are familiar with the home remedy of inhaling steam. Warm steam can relieve throat pain, moisten dry and irritated nasal passages, and lessen the severity of a cough caused by a moderate infection or allergies.
- Gargling : Gargling with saltwater is frequently recommended by healthcare providers to relieve a painful throat caused by the common cold. Saltwater pulls moisture away from the painful area to assist in minimising swelling and discomfort
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is only dry cough a symptom of coronavirus?
Most people with COVID-19 may have a dry cough and pain in the chest.
How do I stop a dry cough?
Mainly, dry coughs are treated at home with OTC medications such as cough suppressants and throat lozenges. Also, there are various home remedies that will help in healing the dry cough, such as humidifiers, saltwater and drinking warm water.
What are the symptoms of dry cough?
Some of the common symptoms of a dry cough are tickling sensation, sore throat, trouble swallowing, runny nose and coughing at night.
Is lemon good for a dry cough?
Lemon is a great home remedy for dry cough as it has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce irritation in the throat and lungs.
How do I know if my cough is serious?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, like shortness of breath, chest pain, fever or coughing up blood, you should visit a doctor immediately.
What triggers a dry cough?
Chronic dry cough is mainly caused by irritation from cigarette smoke, environmental irritants and asthma. Some of the other chronic lung diseases also cause dry cough.
When should you get a dry cough checked?
If you have had a cough for more than 8 days, talk to your doctor before it gets worse.
