Cough (dry)

Table of Contents

Other names

Nonproductive Cough
Irritative Cough
Tickling Cough
Unproductive Cough

Synopsis

A dry cough is a nonproductive cough that does not bring up mucus or phlegm. It often feels like a persistent tickle or irritation in the throat and can result from a wide range of causes — including viral infections, allergies, asthma, GERD (acid reflux), air dryness, or medication side effects (especially ACE inhibitors). While it may begin as a residual symptom after an infection, it can persist for weeks if the airway remains sensitive or inflamed.

Unlike a damp or productive cough, a dry cough is typically caused by inflammation or irritation of the throat and airways, rather than mucus buildup. It can be worse at night, especially when lying down, and may interfere with sleep, concentration, or daily functioning.

Types of Dry Cough:

  • Post-viral Dry Cough: Common after colds or flu.

  • Allergic Dry Cough: Triggered by allergens like dust or pollen.

  • Reflux-related Dry Cough: From acid irritating the throat and airways.

  • Asthmatic Dry Cough: Associated with airway hyperreactivity, especially at night.

  • Medication-Induced Dry Cough: Often from ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril).

Common Causes:

  • Viral infections (lingering cough post-recovery)

  • Asthma or reactive airway disease

  • Allergies or environmental irritants

  • GERD (acid reflux)

  • Air dryness (especially in winter or heated environments)

  • Smoking or exposure to smoke

  • Postnasal drip (can feel dry even if mucus isn’t expectorated)

  • Certain medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors)

Severity Factors:

  • Persistent dry cough lasting more than 3 weeks may require investigation

  • Noisy, wheezing dry cough may indicate airway obstruction

  • Severe or disruptive cough can lead to headaches, sore muscles, or insomnia

When to See a Doctor:

  • Dry cough lasting more than 3–4 weeks

  • Cough accompanied by shortness of breath, weight loss, fever, or chest pain

  • Blood in sputum (even without mucus)

  • Worsening of known asthma or reflux symptoms

  • New onset dry cough after starting medication

Natural Remedies

Honey in warm water or tea: Coats throat and calms irritation (not for children under 1 year)

Steam inhalation or humidifier: Moistens airways to reduce dryness and coughing

Herbal teas: Ginger, licorice root, and marshmallow root soothe inflamed tissues

Hydration: Keep throat moist to reduce irritation

Avoid irritants: Smoke, fragrances, cold air

Elevate head while sleeping: Helps if cough is due to postnasal drip or reflux

Lozenges or throat sprays: Temporarily numb and calm the urge to cough