She Strengthens

The Lowdown on Dry Coughs: Causes, Symptoms, and Remedies

A dry cough can be a real nuisance, but it’s essential to understand what’s behind it to find the right solution. Unlike a productive cough, which brings up mucus or phlegm, a dry cough doesn’t produce anything. It can be a symptom of various conditions, from mild irritations to more serious health issues.

Common Causes of Dry Coughs

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that can lead to dry coughing, especially for those with cough variant asthma (CVA). Other symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, wheezing, and a whistling sound when breathing out.

COVID-19

The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus has been a global concern, and a dry cough is one of its common symptoms. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, sore throat, sinus congestion, body aches, diarrhea, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

Postnasal Drip

Postnasal drip occurs when mucus from the back of your throat irritates your airways, causing a cough. While it’s often a productive cough, it can sometimes lead to a dry cough. Symptoms include a sore throat, issues swallowing, runny nose, nighttime coughing, and feeling like there’s a lump in your throat.

Colds and Viral Infections

Viral infections like the common cold or flu can cause a dry cough, along with other symptoms like achy muscles, runny nose, fever, and sore throat.

GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, leading to irritation and dry coughing. Other symptoms include heartburn, nausea or vomiting, chest pain, chronic cough, and trouble swallowing.

ACE Inhibitors

Some prescription medications, like ACE inhibitors, can cause a dry cough as a side effect. If you’re taking these medications and experiencing a dry cough, talk to your doctor about alternative options.

Allergies and Environmental Causes

Allergens and environmental irritants like dust, pollen, mold, smoke, and pet dander can trigger a dry cough. Other symptoms may include watery eyes, runny nose, or congestion.

Less Common Causes of Dry Coughing

Whooping Cough

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious condition that causes a severe dry cough followed by a “whoop-ing” sound when inhaling.

Collapsed Lung

A collapsed lung, or pneumothorax, can cause dry coughing, shortness of breath, or sudden chest pain. It requires immediate medical attention.

Lung Cancer

A consistent, long-term dry cough can be a symptom of lung cancer. Other symptoms include coughing up blood or bloody phlegm, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, weight loss, and feeling weak or fatigued.

Heart Failure

Heart failure can cause a dry cough or a cough accompanied by foamy white or pink-ish mucus. Other symptoms include sudden or severe shortness of breath, irregular heart rate, weakness or fatigue, abdominal swelling, fluid retention, nausea, and loss of appetite.

Treating a Dry Cough

Medical Treatments

Decongestants and cough suppressants are available over-the-counter or by prescription. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have high blood pressure or are taking other medications.

Home Remedies

• Menthol cough drops or rubs
• Humidifiers
• Hot showers
• Elevating your bed
• Hot beverages like tea or broth
• Avoiding irritants and allergens
• Honey (for adults only)
• Salt water gargles
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Bromelain supplements (after consulting your doctor)

When to Call the Doctor

If your dry cough persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms like trouble breathing, fever, issues swallowing, chest pain, or feeling like something’s stuck in your throat, it’s time to consult your doctor. Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you experience any unusual or concerning symptoms.