Dry, itchy cough: what to know

A dry, itchy cough often reflects irritated airways from a recent infection, allergy, reflux or an asthma-related response. It may feel like a tickle without mucus. The timing, triggers and associated symptoms help distinguish possibilities, but the cough alone cannot identify its cause.

A cough after a blocked or runny nose can follow a Common Cold or Allergic Rhinitis. Wheeze, chest tightness or cough triggered by exercise may occur with Asthma. Burning in the chest, sour taste or cough when lying down can point towards Acid Reflux. Acute Bronchitis may cause cough after a respiratory infection, while a cough that persists needs a clinician to assess it rather than assuming the cause.

Drink fluids, use warm drinks if soothing, and avoid smoke, fragrances and dusty air. Honey may soothe a cough for adults and children over one year, but never give honey to an infant. If nasal symptoms are present, gentle saline rinsing may help. Do not start antibiotics or someone else’s inhaler without advice. Note whether lying down, meals, pets, dust or cold air bring it on.

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, severe chest pain, confusion, coughing blood or rapid deterioration. Arrange an assessment for a persistent cough, repeated night waking, wheeze, fever that continues, or unexplained weight loss. Babies with breathing difficulty, poor feeding or unusual sleepiness need prompt medical attention.

Ask which causes fit your trigger pattern, whether you need an examination or breathing tests, and which treatments are appropriate. Tell the clinician how long the cough has lasted, whether it is worse at night, and any medicines, allergies or smoking exposure.