by Dr Pandula Siribaddana

Created on: September 21, 2009   Last Updated: November 05, 2009

Why does 'cough' occur?

A cough is a reflex mechanism in the body which will facilitate the expulsion of foreign substances and organisms from the airways and protect the airways from such invasions.

What is a 'dry cough'?

The dry cough usually refers to a cough which does not bring out any phlegm. In most conditions, a dry cough will progress in to a 'wet cough'. The dryness would be due to either non existence of excessive mucous in the airways or production of thick mucus which is difficult to expel. When the dry cough persist for a long time, it could well be due to an irritation, inflammation or an allergy.

What can cause a 'dry cough'?

In most of the instances, following underlying triggers are present,

Allergies to certain odours or fumes Asthma Irritation due to lack of humidity or chemicals Smoking Throat dryness Post nasal drip Acid reflux

When does 'dry cough' become dangerous?

In rare instances, it is possible to harbour a more serious condition such as a cancer, which can precipitate as a long term dry cough. Tuberculosis is also one such disease entity that can be present as a prolonged dry cough especially in the night.

What is the remedied in relieving of a 'dry cough'?

However, most of the dry coughs that we encounter in our day to day lives are due to environmental factors. Following suggestions will help in suppressing the cough reflex and curing this troublesome condition up to a certain level.

* Avoid smoking and inhaling somebody else's smoke.

* Keep your throat moist by taking adequate amount of fluids in the form of preferably water.

* Keep your surrounding adequately humidifies - This can be achieved using adjusting the air conditioners or by introducing a humidifier.

* Do a routine steam inhalation at least twice a day or take a hot shower for at least 10 minutes.

* Avoid contact with asthma triggers. Use an extra pillow to keep the head elevated - This will give relief to post nasal drip by preventing the secretions in the nose flowing backwards and irritating the throat.

* Take treatment for acid reflux.

* Take drugs to prevent allergic reactions.

* Taking anti-tussive medications Home remedies such as honey, warm tea, ginger have also been used to suppress the cough but could not act as a cure.

Apart from the above mentioned remedies, the underlying conditions should be diagnosed and treated accordingly. If not, no matter what kind of cough suppressors we use, the effect would be short and the cough will persist.

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