A dry or hoarse cough can be caused by allergies, flu, croup, acid reflux, or certain medications. A doctor should be consulted for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Allergies and flu can be treated with medication, while croup can be treated at home. Acid reflux and chronic respiratory conditions can also cause coughing.
A dry or hoarse cough can often be a cause for great concern, especially if the affected person is a child. There are several potential causes for developing this type of cough, and it is usually necessary to see a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan. Some of the more common reasons for a hoarse cough include allergies, the flu, or croup. The common cold, acid reflux disease, or the use of certain medications can also be to blame.
Seasonal allergies are a common factor contributing to the development of a dry cough. The cough is usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as itching, watery eyes, or sneezing. A simple allergy test can be performed at the doctor’s office to determine if the patient has any allergies. Sinus infections are relatively common, especially among those with seasonal allergies, and can also lead to this type of cough.
Influenza, more commonly called flu, is a contagious disease of the respiratory system that can produce cough. Additional symptoms may include fever, sore throat, and body aches. Without proper treatment, serious and potentially life-threatening complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia can develop. Sometimes prescription drugs or supportive care in a hospital setting may be needed to treat flu.
Croup is a respiratory disease that typically affects children and causes a cough that sounds a bit like the barking of a seal. Croup is usually a mild disease that can be treated effectively at home, although prescription medications may sometimes be required. The common cold is also prone to causing this type of cough, and sometimes a trip to the doctor is necessary to determine which condition is present.
Acid reflux disease is an often overlooked potential cause of cough, especially if the cough occurs mainly at night and is accompanied by heartburn or difficulty swallowing. Some medications may have cough as one of the possible side effects. Chronic respiratory conditions like asthma can cause an occasional hoarse cough as well. Diseases affecting the lungs or low humidity could be contributing factors to this type of cough. Any questions or concerns about the cause of your cough or the best treatment options for an individual situation should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
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