Dry cough is a very common symptom that usually occurs during the change of seasons or is accompanied by flu and colds. It is particularly annoying because it is triggered by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the throat, irritated by external pathogens. This is why it is important not to minimize the problem but rather to resort to remedies that calm and soften the ailments.
What Is Dry Cough And What Does It Look Like
Dry cough is a physiological defense mechanism put in place by our body, aimed at keeping the upper respiratory tract free from viruses, bacteria, or irritants, to prevent them from reaching the lungs.
This type of cough is particularly irritating and irritating. Unlike the fat cough, the dry cough is unproductive (it is not characterized by catarrhal mucus), and is rather annoying due to the arrogance with which it manifests itself.
Depending on the triggering causes, a dry cough can occur accompanied by other symptoms such as :
- pain in the throat and chest, sometimes also with hoarseness.
- itchy nose and/or throat (in the presence of allergies).
- burning in the trachea, redness, and difficulty swallowing.
- wheezing and chest tightness (in case of asthma).
- fever (infectious diseases).
Why Does A Dry Cough Appear
There may be several reasons behind the dry cough; usually trigger it are viral infections of the nose and throat, but not only. The most common causes include:
- asthma and allergies: exposure to allergens can produce symptoms such as persistent dry cough.
- tracheitis, laryngitis, and pharyngitis: these are pathologies that cause irritation and inflammation of the throat.
- dry air: staying in dry environments can irritate the oral mucous membranes.
- irritants: smoke, dust, and polluted environments stimulate an irritating cough.
- gastroesophageal reflux: often causes redness in the throat, dry cough, and acid regurgitation.
- stress: some psychological factors can favor the onset of dry cough, also called “nervous cough”.
The remedies for dry cough
If the dry cough manifests itself as a not particularly strong discomfort, it is possible to resort to some remedies capable of relieving the symptoms in a natural way, such as fumigation and sedative drinks.
Suffumigi
breathing the vapors is the ideal solution to calm a dry cough. Just dissolve some natural substances in boiling water such as bicarbonate, chamomile, and eucalyptus, and inhale, covering yourself with a towel so as not to disperse the steam;
Herbal teas, infusions, and decoctions
have a calming effect on an irritating cough; in particular, the extract of linden, mallow, chamomile, and licorice are indicated to relieve and soften irritated mucous membranes, even better if diluted with a teaspoon of honey with emollient and softening properties.
On the other hand, when the cough is violent, irritating, and persistent, the doctor may suggest the use of sedative and antitussive drugs, that is, capable of hindering the terrigenous reflex, commercially available in the form of syrups or tablets.
It is advisable to call a doctor when the dry cough is:
- particularly violent and insistent.
- lasts over a week even after the flu.
- in the smoker, it changes hue and characteristics.
- it arises mainly at night.
How to prevent dry cough
The measures to prevent dry cough are common sense attentions which consist of:
- avoid exposing our body to contagion situations that favor respiratory tract irritation.
- do not smoke.
- avoid sudden changes in temperature.
- humidify the home and work environments well.
- maintain good hydration by drinking plenty of water.
- carry out flu and antibacterial vaccination.
Read More: Sore Throat And Cold: Symptoms, Causes And Remedies
