Dry cough and itchy throat medicine

Allergic rhinitis can cause an itchy throat, sneezing, and clear nasal drainage. A common cold may cause cough with congestion or a sore throat. Dryness, reflux, smoke, and some medicines can also irritate the throat. A food allergy is concerning when symptoms begin soon after eating, especially with lip or tongue swelling, hives, wheezing, vomiting, or dizziness. House dust mite allergy may cause symptoms that are worse indoors or on waking. The symptom pattern guides treatment; one cough medicine does not suit every cause.

Ask a pharmacist to check any cough suppressant, lozenge, antihistamine, or nasal treatment against your age, pregnancy status, medical conditions, and current medicines. Follow the package directions and avoid combining products with overlapping ingredients. Do not give adult products to children. Antibiotics do not treat most viral colds and should not be started without medical advice. Fluids, honey for people over one year, saline nasal care, and smoke avoidance can complement treatment. If allergy is suspected, ask whether allergy medication is appropriate and how long to try it.

Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, throat or facial swelling, faintness, blue lips, inability to swallow, or severe drowsiness. Contact a clinician for chest pain, coughing blood, dehydration, persistent fever, wheezing, or a cough that keeps worsening or does not settle. Seek advice before self-treating a young child, or if you have asthma, significant heart or lung disease, are pregnant, or have reduced immunity.

What cause fits my symptoms and examination? Which ingredient should I avoid with my current treatment? How long should I use the medicine before arranging a review?