Overview
A dry cough is a cough without mucus or phlegm. It can be temporary after a viral infection or may persist because of conditions such as asthma, allergies, acid reflux, smoking, or exposure to irritants. Identifying the underlying cause is important when a dry cough continues or is accompanied by other symptoms.
Causes
Viral respiratory infections Asthma Allergies Post-nasal drip Acid reflux Smoking or secondhand smoke Dust, pollution, and chemical fumes Certain medications Airway irritation Other respiratory conditions
Risk Factors
Smoking Exposure to air pollution or dust Asthma or allergies Acid reflux Frequent respiratory infections Occupational exposure to fumes or chemicals Use of certain medications
Diagnosis
Diagnosis depends on how long the cough has lasted and what other symptoms are present. A doctor may perform a physical examination and, when appropriate, recommend a chest X-ray, spirometry or other lung function tests, allergy assessment, blood tests, or additional investigations.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. It may include avoiding smoke and other irritants, treating allergies or asthma, managing acid reflux, maintaining adequate hydration, or treating an underlying infection when appropriate. Persistent or unexplained cough should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
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Prevention
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke. Reduce exposure to dust, pollution, and chemical fumes. Keep indoor air clean and adequately humidified. Manage asthma and allergies properly. Practice good hand hygiene to reduce respiratory infections. Avoid known cough triggers. Seek medical advice when a cough does not improve.
Complications
A prolonged dry cough can cause throat irritation, chest or abdominal muscle pain, headaches, fatigue, disturbed sleep, vomiting, or urinary leakage. Rarely, severe or prolonged coughing can lead to more significant complications.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if a dry cough persists for several weeks, repeatedly returns, becomes worse, or interferes with sleep and daily activities. Seek prompt medical attention if the cough is accompanied by difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing up blood, high fever, unexplained weight loss, or significant weakness.
Conditions Related to This Symptom
Learn more about medical conditions that may cause or be associated with this symptom.
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