A dry cough, also known as non-productive cough, is a cough that is not accompanied by the spitting of phlegm or mucus. In contrast to a chesty or wet cough, which is aimed at clearing the airway obstruction by mucus, a dry cough is irritating in nature and frequently occurs. Children as well as adults can be affected, and it may indicate some disease or could just be a temporary symptom post-viral infection.
This comprehensive guide will highlight the details of what a dry cough incorporates, its causes, symptoms, treatments, and how to prevent it.
Understanding Dry Cough
A dry cough is a reflex response to remove a foreign body or coughing an irritant from the throat or air passages. It isn’t always something severe but can be annoying. Instead of expelling mucus, it is mostly accompanied by a tickle or scratchy feeling in the throat. It may not be serious in nature, but needs to be looked upon with caution.
List of Factors that Cause Dry Cough
Different individuals experience dry cough for different reasons:
1. Viral Infections
Mild flu and cold may leave patients with a continuous tickling dry cough lingering for weeks after all symptoms have disappeared.
2. Allergies
A throat that irritates easily as a result of exposure to pet dander, pollen, and dust can elicit dry cough.
3. Asthma
Dry cough is seen as the major symptom of asthma, especially for those with physically active lifestyles.
4. GERD
Coughing dry for extensive periods of time, particularly whilst lying down, can characterize the symptom of an acidy stomach upsetting the esophagus.
5. Environmental Factors
A combination of smoke, pollution, and dry air along with chemical fumes can act as a trigger for an irritated dry respiratory tract.
6. Medications
Chronic dry cough can be caused as a side effect of certain medications like ACE inhibitors which are used to control high blood pressure.
7. COVID-19
In addition to fever and fatigue, dry cough is commonly experienced among patient diagnosed with COVID-19.
Symptoms Associated with Dry Cough
The most noteworthy symptom is a nonproductive cough; however, the following associated symptoms may also be present:
- A sensation of itch or irritation in the throat
- Voice change or hoarseness
- Pain in the throat
- Excessive coughing leading to tiredness
- Coughing making it difficult to sleep
- Discomfort in the chest associated with persistent coughing
When to See a Doctor
Coughs are rarely serious, but important considerations include if you have:
- Cough persisting longer than three weeks
- Having a high temperature
- Coughing in a strained manner and feeling breathless
- Blood present in phlegm
- Unexplained weight reduction
- Feeling pain in the chest area
- Barking sound or whooping sound when coughing (in children)
Effective Treatments for Dry Cough
To treat a dry cough the reason must first be assessed. Here are some widely advised treatments and medications:
1. Medications without a prescription
- Cough suppressants: Medicines such as dextromethorphan tend to reduce the urge to cough.
- Antihistamines: Helpful if the cough is the result of an allergy.
2. Home Remedies
- Sore throat relief can be aided with honey and warm water.
- Inhalation of steam helps soothe airways and the associated irritation.
- Grating of salt and water can contribute to the soothing of throat increasingly.
- Milk mixed with turmeric also helps as it contains useful properties for inflammation and viruses.
Item 3: Medications
- Asthma cough inhalers
- GERD receives proctoscope pump inhibitors.
- Hate medications for environmental or hay fever allergies.
Note: For every medication, a healthcare provider should be consulted first.
How To Stop Dry Coughs
1. Remaining Hydrated
You can ease harsh throat irritation by drinking lots of fluids.
2. No Smoke Odor in Dusts
Do not come into contact with dust, smoke, or strong smells.
3. Use of Humidifiers
Relieves throat dryness by adding moisture into the air.
4. Good Hygiene Practices
Avoid sicknesses by washing hands frequently.
5. Allergy Treatment
Control exposure to allergens.
6. Immunity Strength
Developed through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep to reduce infections that result in excessive coughing.
Conclusion
While it may appear to be trivial, a persistent dry cough can have severe consequences, and therefore should not be overlooked. Finding the reason is the most important step. Many people can relieve their symptoms, or even avoid them altogether, with the right amount of hydration, avoiding irritants, and consulting with the right healthcare professional.
Whatever the reason may be, whether it is seasonal allergies, viral infections, or environmental triggers, knowing what causes the dry cough helps treat it in the most effective way. So, keep yourself aware and healthy!
FAQs
Based on the cause, anywhere from a few days to weeks is normal.
The cough is not contagious, but the virus responsible for it can be.
The distinction between the two is that dry cough does not have accompanying phlegm while wet (productive) cough offers phlegm.
Certainly. Honey, steam inhalation, turmeric milk, and herbal teas can assist.
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