A dry cough can be caused by various factors, including respiratory infections, lung irritation, allergies, and medication side effects. It is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Ignoring a persistent dry cough can lead to serious health problems.
There are a number of reasons why a patient develops a dry cough, ranging from early signs of a respiratory infection to a cancerous growth in the lungs. Persistent dry cough should be treated by a doctor, as he or she can determine the cause and recommend treatment that addresses the underlying problems. Failure to receive treatment for this type of cough can cause an underlying problem to become quite serious, a very undesirable result.
Some people experience a dry cough in the early stages of a respiratory or viral infection, or when an infection is on the wane. When such infections are at their peak, the cough usually becomes productive, with the cough producing sputum, as opposed to a true dry cough, which tends to feel dry and squeaky. People with chronic infections can develop a very bad cough that can leave their throat very sore.
Lung or windpipe irritation is another common cause. People with asthma often have a chronic dry cough, as do smokers and people who live in areas with significant air pollution or very dry air. A foreign body in the throat can also cause coughing as the throat experiences irritation and attempts to expel the object that does not belong. Gastroesophageal reflex disease (GERD) can also cause coughing, as stomach juices irritate the lining of the windpipe and cause coughing.
Some medications are associated with dry cough, in which case coughing is usually listed as a side effect. Lung disease is another common cause, as are allergies, especially seasonal allergies to pollen and other particulate matter that can be present in the air. Sinus problems and a problem known as postnasal drip, in which mucus builds up in the back of the throat, are also linked to coughing, although more commonly people with sinus problems pass out mucus.
A shrill, cutting cough can be extremely irritating and frustrating, not only for the patient, but for the people they live and work with as well. Coughing is a sign that something in the respiratory system is distressed or not working properly and indicates that a trip to the doctor is in order. There may be times when no treatment is available, but it’s still important to see a doctor so they can determine the cause of your cough. Doctors may also be able to provide suggestions that can help relieve a cough, even if it can’t be cured.
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