What is the treatment for a persistent dry cough, A dry cough is defined as a cough that doesn't produce phlegm or mucus and may cause a tickling sensation in the throat. It's often caused by throat irritation.
Coughing is generally the body's way of clearing the airways of irritants like dust. A dry cough can be caused by a viral infection like a cold or the flu, or by other factors such as allergies and asthma.
Symptoms of a persistent dry cough
Common symptoms of a persistent dry cough include:
- A dry cough (no phlegm).
- Throat irritation and itching.
- A sour taste in the mouth, which may indicate acid reflux.
- Hoarseness or a change in voice.
- A feeling of fluid dripping down the back of the throat.
- A constant need to clear the throat.
Shortness of breath. Causes of a Persistent Dry Cough
There are several causes of a persistent dry cough, including the following common causes:
- Inhaling irritants that irritate the airways, such as smoke, strong chemical odors, or dry air.
- Seasonal allergies or exposure to allergens, such as dry coughs or pet dander.
- Respiratory infections, such as viral infections like the common cold and flu.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid can irritate the throat and cause a dry cough.
- Taking certain medications, as a dry cough can be a side effect of some drugs.
- Chronic bronchitis, which can cause a persistent cough.
How is a Dry Cough Diagnosed
Diagnosis of a dry cough depends on the accompanying symptoms. The treating physician will diagnose the cough based on a CT scan and chest X-ray.
The diagnosis will be supplemented with tests to determine the cause, which could be a viral infection (common colds and flu), allergies, or certain environmental factors.
Treatment for a Persistent Dry Cough
Treatment for a dry cough depends on the underlying cause. If the cause is a viral infection, the doctor may prescribe lozenges to soothe the cough and recommend drinking warm liquids.
If the cause of the dry cough is seasonal allergies, the doctor may prescribe antihistamines to reduce symptoms and alleviate allergy-related coughing.
If the cough is caused by asthma attacks, the doctor may prescribe long-acting bronchodilators and recommend lifestyle modifications to reduce persistent dry coughing.
Medications for Treating a Persistent Dry Cough
Medications for treating a persistent dry cough depend on the underlying cause. Some effective medications include:
- Ivypront Syrup
- Mucosolvan Syrup
- Bronchicum Syrup
- Ivycan Syrup
- Cufleve Syrup
- Valulit Syrup Bronchicum lozenges.
Tips for relieving a persistent dry cough
- Drink plenty of fluids such as water, juices, and hot beverages to help soothe the throat.
- Gargle with salt water to soothe the throat.
- Take a spoonful of honey with warm water or herbal tea to soothe the throat.
- Use a humidifier or inhale steam from a warm shower.
- Avoid irritants and stay away from smoke, smoking, and dust.
- Elevate your head while sleeping to reduce a persistent dry cough.
When to consult a doctor
- If the cough is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath and fever.
- If the dry cough persists for more than three weeks.
- If the dry cough is severe and affects daily activities.
Herbs for treating a persistent dry cough
A persistent dry cough can be treated with natural herbs, including:
- Thyme, which reduces inflammation and helps relax the muscles that cause a dry cough.
- Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, soothes the throat, and relieves persistent itching.
- Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and relieves dry coughs.
- Licorice has antiviral and antibacterial properties, but it should not be consumed by those with high blood pressure.
- Peppermint soothes irritated tissues.
Article Summary
A dry cough is a cough that doesn't produce phlegm. While coughing generally helps clear the airways of mucus, a persistent dry cough can indicate a respiratory problem.
It may also cause a tickling sensation in the throat and is a result of throat irritation,A doctor will determine the appropriate treatment based on the symptoms and underlying cause of the dry cough and will prescribe remedies to soothe the cough,Drinking warm fluids is also recommended.