7 Common Dry Cough Causes (and Treatment/Remedy Options You Can Try)
Medically reviewed by Jane Kim, MDMedically reviewed by Jane Kim, MDA dry cough occurs as a natural reflex when inflammation or irritation affects your airway. It is also called an unproductive cough since it does not produce phlegm or mucus. A dry cough can be classified as acute or chronic, based on its duration.A dry cough often occurs as a result of an upper respiratory infection and resolves with the course of the disease. However, it can also be a sign of chronic health problems such as acid reflux or asthma. Treatment of a dry cough depends on the cause.
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#1 COVID-19COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It causes mild to moderate respiratory illness that typically does not require special treatment. However, older people and those with underlying medical conditions like diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cardiovascular disease have the highest risk of developing serious illnesses from COVID-19.The COVID-19 infection inflames your lung tissues, making breathing, getting oxygen, and removing waste more challenging. With COVID-19, a dry cough occurs in about 50% to 70% of people who have the disease.While COVID-19 affects everyone differently, other common symptoms can include:DiarrheaFatigueFever or chillsHeadacheLoss of appetite (anorexia)Loss of taste or smell Muscle or body achesNasal or sinus congestionNausea or vomitingRunny noseSore throatTreatmentMost people do not require special treatment for COVID-19. However, your healthcare provider may advise treatment based on your age and other health conditions. COVID-19 treatments include:Oral antivirals that stop the COVID-19 virus from making copies of itself, including Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) and Lagevrio (molnupiravir)Intravenous (IV) antivirals, including Veklury (remdesivir)
Learn More: Which Medications Should You Take For COVID?
#2 AsthmaAsthma is a chronic lung disease that affects the airways that carry air in and out of your lungs. With asthma, your airways become narrowed when you encounter specific triggers such as smoke, viruses, or allergens like pollen, causing an asthma attack and making it harder to breathe.Asthma can cause a dry cough when the small airway muscles tighten and swell. Other symptoms of asthma include:Chest tightness with painCyanosis (a color change in tissue on mucus membranes, fingertips, or nail beds to bluish on lighter skin tones and grayish or whitish on dark skin tonesExpanded chest that does not deflate when you exhaleFaster or slower than normal breathingHard or shallow breathingNighttime waking due to asthma symptomsRibs or stomach moving in and out rapidly and deeplyShortness of breathWheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe)TreatmentAsthma treatment is complicated because it involves preventing symptoms and symptom relief. Asthma treatments include lifestyle changes and medications, as well as bronchial thermoplasty.Making lifestyle changes to avoid exposure to common asthma triggers that cause the airways to constrict include:Allergens such as mold, dust mites, and pet danderCertain health conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen sodium)Tobacco smokeQuick-relief medications to help prevent or ease symptoms during an asthma attack include:Inhaled short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) to open your airways so air can flow throughOral corticosteroids to reduce swelling in your airwaysShort-acting anticholinergics to help open your airways quicklyLong-term medicines include:Allergy shots called subcutaneous immunotherapy, (SCIT)Biologic medicines such as Xolair (omalizumab)Inhaled corticosteroidsInhaled mast cell stabilizers such as cromolyn to prevent swelling around allergy triggersLeukotriene modifiers such as Singulair (montelukast) to reduce swelling and keep airways openAnother treatment is bronchial thermoplasty. It is a procedure that involves the application of heat to the muscles along the walls of your airways to help prevent airway narrowing. It is done via the insertion of a bronchoscope (a tube with a camera at the end, through your mouth to see inside your airways).
Learn More: How Asthma Is Treated
#3 Idiopathic Pulmonary FibrosisIdiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe, progressive, and generally fatal lung disease that causes inflammation and/or scarring of your lungs' alveoli (air sacs) for unknown reasons. The scarring interferes with your ability to breathe because it thickens the lining of your lungs. This causes irreversible loss of the tissue's ability to transport oxygen until the lungs can no longer provide oxygen to your organs and tissues.A dry and nagging cough that worsens over time is a common early symptom of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. It can be triggered by factors such as exercise, laughing, crying, or breathing in smoke or other chemicals.Other symptoms of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis are:Aching muscles and jointsDigital clubbing (widening and rounding of the tips of your fingers or toes)Extreme tirednessGradual unintended weight lossMalaise (generally feeling unwell)Rapid, shallow breathingShortness of breath that worsens over timeTreatmentWhile there is no cure for IPF, treatments can slow down the progression of lung damage and help improve your quality of life. Treatment can include medications, breathing therapies, and surgery.Medications include:Antacids to prevent stomach aid from getting into your lungAntifibrotic agents Esbriet (pirfenidone) and Ofev (nintedanib) to help your lungs work better and prevent acute exacerbationCough medicationsImmunosuppressant drugs to reduce inflammation if an autoimmune disease is presentSteroids that reduce inflammationBreathing therapies include:Oxygen therapy to decrease shortness of breath and improve your ability to exerciseVentilator support to assist with breathingSurgery includes a lung transplant for treatment of severe symptoms.
Learn More: What Are the Types of Fibrosis?
#4 Gastroesophageal Reflux DiseaseGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which your stomach acid repeatedly flows back up into your esophagus (the food tube that connects your mouth and stomach). The regurgitated stomach acid is called acid reflux. Problems arise because this highly acidic substance can irritate the lining of your esophagus.While periodic acid reflux is common, it happens repeatedly over time with GERD. GERD can cause a cough when the acid and other digestive enzymes irritate your throat. This change in sensation or irritation can stimulate a cough.In addition to a dry cough, symptoms of GERD can include:AsthmaBloatingBurpingChest painDifficulty swallowing or a sensation of having a lump in your throat)NauseaRegurgitation (the return of stomach contents up through your esophagus and into your mouth)Shortness of breathSore throat, hoarseness, or laryngitisSour taste in your mouthTooth enamel erosion (wearing away)TreatmentTreatment for GERD can vary based on the severity of your disease. Common treatments include changes to diet, medications, and surgery.Dietary and lifestyle changes include:Avoid eating before bedtime.Avoid lying down after eating.Avoid trigger foods.Elevate the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches while you sleep.Establish and maintain a healthy weight.Participate in smoking cessation.Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications include:Antacids to neutralize stomach acids including Maalox, Mylanda, Rolaids, TUMS, and others (calcium carbonate)Histamine 2 (H2) blockers to reduce the amount of stomach acid including Pepcit (famotidine), Tagamet HB (cimetidine), Zantac (ranitidine), and Axid (nizatidine)Lyvispah (baclofen) to reduce lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, a condition that allows acid backwash to occurProton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce the amount of stomach acid including Prilosec (omeprazole), Nexium (esomeprazole), and Prevacid (lansoprazole)Surgery includes:Endoscopic gastric plication is the application of sutures around your lower esophageal sphincter to tighten it.Laparoscopic fundoplication is considered the gold standard of GERD surgery, it involves a laparoscopic procedure in which your fundus (the top of your stomach) is wrapped around the bottom of your esophagus.Magnetic sphincter augmentation (LINX device) entails the placement of tiny magnetic titanium beads in the area where your stomach and esophagus meet to quickly close the opening to prevent acid reflux after it lets in food and drink.Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) is a procedure performed using an endoscope (a long tube with a camera that is inserted through your mouth into your esophagus) to fold your fundus around your esophagus without an incision.
Learn More: GERD (Heartburn) Surgery: Everything You Need to Know
#5 Postnasal DripPostnasal drip, also known as upper airway cough syndrome, is a feeling of mucus gathering in your throat or at the back of your nose. When you are healthy, you swallow mucus unconsciously many times a day.However, factors such as seasonal allergies, some medications, GERD, and spicy foods can increase the volume of mucus or thicken it. This can lead to coughing as you try to manage the abnormal flow and texture of the mucus.Postnasal drip typically lasts for a few days or weeks, though it can become chronic and persist for months. In addition to a persistent dry cough, symptoms of postnasal drip include:Burning feeling in your throatConstant need to clear the throatCoughingHoarseness or losing your voiceScratchy, tickling, or itching in the back of your throatA sensation of having a lump in the back of your throatSore throatTreatmentTreatment for postnasal drip varies based on the cause of the problem, including bacterial infections, chronic sinusitis, seasonal allergies, and GERD.For bacterial infections:AntibioticsDecongestantsNasal spraySaline nasal irrigationsChronic sinusitis may require surgery to open blocked sinuses.Seasonal allergies may be treated with the following:AntihistaminesAvoiding triggersCromolyn and steroid nasal sprayDecongestantsImmunotherapy (desensitization)Oral steroidsIf GERD is the cause, traditional treatments for this condition will be used.Measures to allow the mucus to pass more easily include:Avoid diuretics (medications that reduce fluid from your body by increasing urination).Drink more water.Eliminate caffeine.Mucus-thinning agents such as Mucinex, Robitussin (guaifenesin).Saline nasal sprays such as Ocean or Ayr to reduce secretion thickness.
Learn More: Postnasal Drip: Causes and How to Get Relief
#6 Upper Respiratory InfectionsUpper respiratory infections (URIs) are contagious infections that affect your upper respiratory tract (including your nasal passages, sinuses, and throat). The most common upper respiratory infections are viral infections, such as the rhinovirus, which causes the common cold. Viruses such as adenovirus and bacteria such as chlamydia can cause upper respiratory infections.A dry cough is a common URI symptom because these conditions affect your nasal passages and throat. Other symptoms of upper respiratory infections can vary by specific disease. These symptoms can include:Bad breathBody achesConjunctivitis (itchy and watery eyes)DiarrheaFeverHeadacheNasal congestion and difficulty breathing through the noseNauseaRunny noseShortness of breathSinus painSneezingSore or scratchy throat and pain when swallowingVomitingTreatmentTreatment for an upper respiratory infection can vary based on the cause of the infection. Dry cough remedies can include medications and lifestyle changes.Medications include:Antibiotics for URIs caused by bacteriaCough suppressantsExpectorants to loosen congestionInhaled corticosteroidsNSAIDs, Tylenol (acetaminophen), and other pain relieversLifestyle changes include:Increased fluidsRestSupplemental oxygen
Learn More: When Is the Common Cold Season?
#7 Lung CancerLung cancer is cancer that starts when cells in your lung mutate (develop abnormally) and grow out of control. It usually occurs from breathing dangerous chemicals, but can also develop without a known cause. As the abnormal cells grow, they join to form a tumor, which destroys surrounding healthy lung tissue.Lung cancer can cause a cough when it originates in your large central airways. A tumor can narrow the airway and cause coughing. While a dry cough can be an early sign of lung cancer, the disease affects everyone differently. In most people, symptoms do not occur until the disease advances.In addition to a dry cough, other possible symptoms of lung cancer include:Chest pain that worsens with coughing, deep breathing, or laughingConstant fatigueCoughing up blood or rust-colored spit or phlegmLoss of appetiteRepeated episodes of bronchitis or pneumoniaShortness of breathSwollen or enlarged lymph nodes (glands) inside your chest in the area between your lungsUnexplained weight lossWheezingTreatmentTreatment for lung cancer varies based on its type and stage. Depending on additional factors such as your age and other health conditions, treatment for lung cancer can include one or more of the following therapies:Chemotherapy: The use of special medicines typically administered through an IV or an implanted port to shrink or kill cancer cellsClinical trials: Studies to find ways to treat lung cancer more effectivelyImmunotherapy: drugs that help your immune system fight against cancerMonoclonal antibodies: drugs that can cause your immune system to attack the cancer cellRadiation therapy: The use of high-energy rays in one of the following types of procedure, such as proton therapy, stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), and stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR)Surgery: A procedure to remove all or part of the cancer from your lungTargeted therapies: Drugs that block the growth and spread of specific types of cancer cells
Learn More: Primary and Secondary Lung Cancer
Other Potential CausesThere are many other potential causes of a dry cough. These include:Smoking or Inhaling Cigarette SmokeSmoking or breathing in smoke can sometimes cause a smoker's cough fast your body tries to clear the irritants caused by smoking.Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) InhibitorsAbout 10% of people who take ACE inhibitors develop a dry cough. These drugs, such as Vasotec (enalapril) and Zestril (lisinopril), are commonly used to treat high blood pressure.BronchiectasisBronchiectasis is an obstructive lung disease that occurs from inflammation and infection. It causes permanent widening of your airways. Bronchiectasis occurs from inflammation and infection.Cystic FibrosisCystic fibrosis is a progressive, and life-threatening condition. It damages the lungs and digestive tract.SarcoidosisSarcoidosis develops when groups of cells in your immune system form called granulomas. These small, red, and inflamed lumps can cause permanent scarring in your lungs and lymph nodes in your chest.PneumoniaPneumonia or other lung infections are contagious conditions caused by bacteria or viruses in your lower respiratory tract. They spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes.Laryngopharyngeal RefluxLaryngopharyngeal reflux is a type of reflux (the return of stomach acid from your stomach into your throat) that triggers postnasal drip, the sensation of a lump in your throat, and a dry cough.Environmental AllergiesEnvironmental allergies are types of allergies cause your body to overreact to harmless substances in the environment. They can include pollen, mold, pet dander, or grass.Certain MedicationsA dry cough can occur as a side effect of the following types of medications:Calcium channel blockersCellCept (mycophenolate mofetil, or MMF)Dilantin (phenytoin)FentanylLatanoprostMethotrexatePrilosec (omeprazole)SitagliptinTopamax (topiramate)
Learn More: I Have a Dry Cough, What Helps?
How to Get Rid of a Dry Cough at HomeThere are many ways to get rid of a dry cough at home. Choosing the best treatment depends on the cause of your symptoms. Since a dry cough can occur as a symptom of another condition, it is important to treat and manage underlying health problems.At-home remedies encompass lifestyle modifications and medications.Lifestyle ModificationsThese include:Avoid known allergens such as smoke and hay fever to reduce the risk of a dry cough caused by an allergic reaction.Avoid secondhand airborne irritants and cigarette smoke in your home and workplace.Consult your healthcare provider about changing your prescription if you take a medication known to cause a dry cough.Drink plenty of liquids such as water, soup broths, or herbal teas to moisturize a dry throat.Operate an air-conditioner rather than fans or open windows to cool the inside air.Take hot showers or use a humidifier to create moisture in the air.Try aromatherapy by using essential oils such as holy basil, eucalyptus, thyme, or peppermint in an oil diffuser.Use dust mite covers to encase pillows and mattresses inside dust mite covers.Use extra pillows or a wedge to elevate your head while sleeping.Nonprescription (Over-the-Counter) TreatmentsThese treatments include:Breathe in steam from a humidifier or leaning a safe distance above a bowl of boiling water and drape a towel over your head to inhale the moisture.Consume holy basil as a tea or added to steam as an extract to treat a dry cough.Gargle with a mixture of one-half teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water.Make thyme tea by steeping 3 to 4 teaspoons of dried thyme leaves or powder in boiling water for five to 10 minutes. Thyme contains thymol, an antispasmodic to relax throat muscles.Steep freshly grated ginger root in hot water to make ginger tea or add ginger to other herbal tea blends to take advantage of ginger's anti-inflammatory properties and compounds called gingerols that can relieve coughing.Suck on hard candy or cough drops with ingredients like peppermint, honey, or eucalyptus oil to treat the sensation of a tickle in the back of your throat.Take a natural capsaicin (chili) supplement to reduce the effects of dry coughs triggered by environmental irritants.Take cough suppressants, such as Delsym (dextromethorphan), Mucinex DM (guaifenesin and dextromethorphan), and Tessalon (benzonatate)Take 1 to 2 teaspoons of raw, unpasteurized honey alone or in warm water or herbal tea to soothe irritation.Prescription Cough SuppressantsPrescription cough suppressants include the following:CodeineHydrocodone Lyrica (pregabalin)Neurontin (gabapentin)
Learn More: How to Choose the Best Over-the-Counter Cough Medicines
When to Contact a Healthcare ProviderWith so many potential causes, it can be difficult to know whether your dry cough is a minor inconvenience or a symptom of a serious medical condition. To ensure you're not ignoring warning signs of a potential health problem, consider the following guidelines for when to seek medical attention for a dry cough.Contact a healthcare provider for a dry cough that occurs with any of the following characteristics:Contact with someone who has tuberculosisFeverHeart disease, swollen legs, or a cough that worsens when you lie down (signs of heart failure)If the cough is in an infant age 3 months or youngerLonger than three weeks' durationNight sweatsRapid onset of a violent coughShortness of breath or syncope (fainting)Stridor (high-pitched sound) when you breathe inThick green or yellow phlegm"Whooping" sound when you breathe between coughs (a sign of pertussis, or whooping cough)Call 911 or go to an emergency room if you have a dry cough with any of the following features:Choking or vomiting, especially in childrenDifficulty breathingDifficulty swallowingPersistent or sharp chest painPink or bloody mucus
Learn More: When to See a Healthcare Provider for a Cough
SummaryIn most cases, a dry cough is not a cause for concern. It typically occurs as a common cold or flu symptom that wanes as the condition resolves.While home treatments can relieve symptoms, they do not cure coughs. Curing a cough requires resolving or treating the underlying cause. Knowing the source of your cough can help you manage symptoms and avoid triggers in cases of problems like allergies and reflux.When a dry cough occurs as a sign of an underlying condition, it must be identified and treated to resolve the cough. Contact your healthcare provider if you have a dry cough that persists longer than three weeks or fails to improve with home treatment. Read the original article on Verywell Health.
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