Dry, unproductive cough: what to know

The cough reflex can remain sensitive after a common cold or acute bronchitis, even when the infection is settling. Allergic rhinitis can irritate the throat through nasal drainage. Asthma may present with cough, wheeze, chest tightness or breathlessness, while acid reflux may cause coughing with hoarseness or a sour taste. A dry cough does not identify one cause by itself. A changing cough, repeated episodes or symptoms that last beyond the expected recovery period deserve an examination. Conditions such as bronchiectasis and bronchiolitis require assessment based on the wider history and examination.

Keep fluids nearby, try a warm drink and protect your throat from smoke, dust and strong scents. Use prescribed asthma treatment as instructed. If meals or lying down trigger coughing, write this down and discuss reflux measures with a clinician or pharmacist. Honey can soothe adults and children older than one year, but it is unsuitable for infants. Check any cough medicine label carefully, especially if you take other medicines, are pregnant or are treating a child. Note the cough's timing, triggers and effect on sleep.

Call for urgent help if you have severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, blue lips, confusion, or blood when coughing. Seek prompt medical advice for worsening symptoms, high or persistent fever, wheezing, dehydration, or a cough after choking. Book a review if it persists, repeatedly returns or limits sleep and daily activity.

What features point toward asthma, reflux, allergy or infection? Should my current medicines be reviewed? Would an examination or testing help explain the persistent cough?