Dry Cough Causes, Treatments, and Ways to Avoid It

A dry cough, also known as a non-productive cough¹, is a cough that doesn’t produce mucus or phlegm. It often feels like a persistent tickle in the throat and may lead to soreness if it continues over time. Other common symptoms associated with dry cough include:

• A hoarse voice
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Difficulty sleeping due to coughing fits

If you’ve been dealing with a dry cough for 2 weeks or have been experiencing severe symptoms such as coughing up blood, chest pain, or high fever, seek medical attention promptly¹.

Understanding the root cause of a dry cough is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Viral Infections

   Conditions such as the common cold, flu, and even COVID-19 often cause dry coughs. Additionally, a post-viral cough is one that lingers after a person has recovered from a viral infection that may last up to 3–8 weeks².

2. Environmental Irritants

   Exposure to pollutants, smoke, dust, or chemical fumes can irritate the respiratory tract and lead to a persistent dry cough. According to the American Lung Association, poor air quality in certain areas may exacerbate these symptoms³.

3. Allergies

   Many individuals experience a dry cough due to allergies. Common allergens such as pollen, pet dander, mold, and dust mites can trigger this type of cough. When these allergens are inhaled, the body’s immune system reacts by trying to expel the irritants⁴, leading to a persistent dry cough. Studies indicate that allergic rhinitis can frequently cause or contribute to chronic dry cough.⁵

4. Acid Reflux

   Acid reflux can cause stomach acid to move back up into the esophagus, triggering your cough reflex⁶. A study on the relationship between GERD and cough suggests that acid reflux-related cough often worsens after eating or when lying down⁷.

5. Asthma

   Asthma can manifest as a dry cough, particularly during the night. This type of cough may be triggered by exercise, cold air, or allergens and is typically accompanied by wheezing and shortness of breath¹².

6. Medications

   Certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors (used to treat high blood pressure), are known to cause dry cough as a side effect. If this occurs, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to adjust the medication if necessary.

ACE inhibitors, such as lisinopril, are commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions. However, they can cause a persistent dry cough in some people⁹

The treatment for a dry cough largely depends on its underlying cause. Here are several options to consider on how to loosen a dry cough:

Over-the-Counter Medications¹

Meds for dry cough are readily available in pharmacies and may include ingredients like dextromethorphan or menthol to soothe the throat. If you want effective relief from dry cough, you can try Dextromethorphan HBr (Strepsils) Dry Cough lozenges. As a cough suppressant, these antitussive lozenges reduce the urge to cough, especially at night, so you can get a good night’s rest.

Lifestyle Changes

• Saltwater gargle

Gargling with saltwater may help soothe inflamed tissue¹ and make you feel better.

• Honey and Warm Beverages¹

Honey has natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe a dry, irritated throat. It can help decrease inflammation and provide relief against throat irritation¹¹

For persistent dry cough lasting more than two weeks, it’s advisable to seek a healthcare provider’s advice. They can offer additional treatment options, including prescription medications if necessary.

While it’s not always possible to prevent a dry cough, adopting certain lifestyle habits can help minimize your risk:

1. Avoid Irritants

   If you’re frequently exposed to smoke, pollution, or chemicals, take steps to limit your exposure¹³. Wearing a mask in polluted areas or improving ventilation in your workspace can significantly reduce irritation.

2. Stay Hydrated

   Drinking plenty of water helps keep the throat moist and supports overall respiratory health¹³. Proper hydration also helps thin mucus, which can alleviate coughing.

3. Practice Good Hygiene

   Regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals can help reduce your risk of catching infections that lead to dry cough¹³.

4. Manage Allergies

   If you’re prone to allergies, consider using allergy medications or air purifiers to reduce your exposure to allergens¹³. Avoiding known triggers can minimize your risk of developing a dry cough.

5. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping

   Raising your head with an extra pillow or using a wedge pillow may help prevent acid reflux from irritating your throat during sleep, which can reduce coughing at night.

For individuals prone to acid reflux, sleeping with your head elevated can help prevent stomach acid from entering the esophagus, reducing the likelihood of a cough at night¹⁴.

Although dry coughs are often harmless and resolve on their own, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. Consider seeing a healthcare provider if:

• Your dry cough has persisted for more than three weeks¹⁵.
• You have been coughing up blood, as this can be a sign of a serious infection, lung disease, or other significant health issues¹⁵.
• You experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or wheezing¹⁵.
• The cough is accompanied by a high fever or other concerning symptoms¹⁵.
• You have a history of smoking, which could increase the risk of lung-related conditions¹⁵.

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent potential complications and offer relief from prolonged symptoms.

Dealing with a dry cough can feel like a never-ending annoyance, especially when it just won't seem to go away. Understanding what's causing it, knowing which treatments to try, and taking simple steps to prevent it can make a big difference.

A dry cough should never be ignored if it interferes with your daily life. For effective relief, check out and get your Dextromethorphan HBr (Strepsils) Dry Cough lozenges.

And remember, if your dry cough sticks around or starts to feel like more than just a minor irritation, don't hesitate to check in with a healthcare professional.