What should you know about severe dry cough?

A dry cough produces little or no mucus. Repeated coughing can make the throat and chest feel raw, strain the muscles between the ribs, and create a cycle in which irritation triggers more coughing. A recent viral illness such as the Common Cold or Acute Bronchitis may be involved. Other possibilities include Asthma, Allergic Rhinitis, or Acid Reflux. A cough that continues beyond the expected recovery period deserves assessment because the trigger may need targeted treatment.

Sip warm fluids, use honey if it is suitable for you, and avoid smoke, incense, strong fragrances, and dusty air. Rest your voice and consider a humidified room if dry air worsens the irritation. Follow the label on any pharmacy medicine and check with a pharmacist if you are pregnant, have a long-term condition, or take regular medicines. Do not start antibiotics without an assessment; they do not treat every cause of cough. Note when the cough began, what triggers it, and whether wheezing, fever, reflux, or breathlessness accompanies it.

Seek urgent medical help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting, chest pain, coughing blood, or difficulty speaking in full sentences. Arrange prompt clinical review if the cough is rapidly worsening, follows choking, comes with a high fever, or prevents sleep and fluids. A clinician may listen to your chest, review medicines and exposures, and decide whether tests are needed.

Could reflux, asthma, allergy, infection, or a medicine be contributing? What warning signs should I watch for? Which treatments are suitable with my other medicines?