Dry cough treatment

Many people perceive a dry cough as a usual consequence of a cold and expect that it will pass on its own. However, if the symptom persists for several weeks, regularly recurs or gradually intensifies, this may indicate a serious disease. In some cases, it is one of the first manifestations of diseases of the respiratory system, cardiovascular pathologies, disorders in the functioning of the digestive tract or other systems.

At the Oxford Medical medical center, you can undergo the necessary examinations and receive an individual treatment plan. The doctor will help establish the cause of the symptoms and select therapy in accordance with the diagnostic results.

A dry cough can occur for various reasons — from a common viral infection to chronic diseases of the bronchi, allergic reactions or disorders in the work of other organs. Most often, it accompanies diseases of the respiratory system, however sometimes its appearance may be associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), taking certain medicinal products or separate cardiovascular pathologies.

Separately, it is worth paying attention to a sharp, rough sound during attacks. In everyday life, it is sometimes described as a barking cough. Such a symptom can occur with inflammation of the larynx, irritation of the upper respiratory tract or swelling of the mucous membrane, therefore it requires a doctor’s examination, especially if accompanied by difficulty breathing.

Common causes also include viral infections of the upper respiratory tract, pharyngitis, allergic diseases, bronchial asthma, irritation by tobacco smoke, dust or dry air. At the same time, it is impossible to accurately establish a diagnosis by the nature of the symptom, therefore with a prolonged or frequently recurring course it is important to undergo an examination.

Manifestations may differ depending on the cause of the disease and the duration of the symptoms. In some people, they occur only episodically, while in others they recur many times during the day or bother them at night.

Most often, a dry cough in an adult or child is accompanied by:

• frequent attacks;

• tickling or irritation in the throat;

• a feeling of discomfort or pain behind the breastbone after attacks;

• hoarseness of the voice;

• rapid fatigue;

• sleep disturbance;

• a feeling of lack of air.

In some cases, a dry cough without other symptoms occurs, when there is no runny nose, increase in body temperature or pronounced worsening of well-being. However, a severe dry cough without fever is not always a safe manifestation and may accompany various diseases.

The doctors of «Oxford Medical» recommend not postponing examination if the symptom persists for several weeks or regularly recurs. Timely treatment for a dry cough helps to relieve the patient’s condition faster and reduce the risk of developing complications.

Since a dry cough can be a manifestation of various diseases, the main task of diagnosis is to establish the cause of its occurrence. During the appointment, the family doctor or therapist clarifies when the symptom appeared, how long it lasts, whether it is associated with physical exertion, body position, contact with allergens or previous infections.

The examination usually begins with an inspection and auscultation of the lungs. If necessary, the following may be prescribed:

• chest X-ray to assess the condition of the lungs and exclude inflammatory or other pathological changes;

• CT of the lungs for a more detailed examination of lung tissue and bronchi;

• complete blood count to detect signs of inflammation, infection or an allergic reaction;

• spirometry to assess the function of external respiration and bronchial patency;

• bronchoscopy to examine the trachea and bronchi from the inside in the presence of appropriate indications.

The scope of the examination is determined individually and depends on the duration of symptoms, accompanying manifestations and the results of the primary examination. The data obtained help establish the cause and select the optimal treatment tactics.

The treatment tactics depend on the cause of the symptom and its duration. According to The diagnosis and management of chronic cough, the most effective approach is one in which therapy is aimed not only at eliminating the cough, but also at treating the cause of its occurrence. The main objectives of therapy are to reduce irritation of the respiratory tract, relieve symptoms and control the disease that caused them.

Depending on the clinical situation, the following may be used:

• medications that suppress the cough reflex and help reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks;

• anti-inflammatory agents;

• antihistamines in case of the allergic nature of the symptoms;

• bronchodilator medications in the presence of bronchospasm;

• inhalations — may be used to moisturize the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, reduce irritation and deliver medicinal products directly into the bronchi.

Treatment of a dry irritating cough is usually aimed at reducing irritation of the mucous membrane and the frequency of attacks. If the symptom is associated with a specific disease, its treatment is carried out in parallel.

A separate approach is needed during pregnancy. Treatment of dry cough in pregnant women is carried out taking into account the term of pregnancy, the cause of the symptoms and safety for the expectant mother and child. Any medicinal products during this period should be used only as prescribed by a doctor.

The doctors of «Oxford Medical» note: treating a dry cough independently without establishing a diagnosis is not recommended. Incorrectly selected medications may be ineffective and delay the detection of the underlying disease.

A dry cough itself is not always dangerous, however its prolonged persistence or lack of treatment of the underlying disease may lead to a deterioration in health. The consequences depend primarily on the cause of the symptom and the duration of the course of the disease.

Possible complications are:

• progression of the underlying disease;

• spread of the infectious process to the lower respiratory tract;

• development of bronchitis or pneumonia;

• sleep disturbance and chronic fatigue;

• pain in the chest and muscles due to frequent attacks;

• temporary urinary incontinence during severe attacks in some patients;

• deterioration in quality of life.

The doctors of «Oxford Medical» emphasize: special attention should be paid to a symptom that does not pass within several weeks, gradually intensifies or is accompanied by other manifestations. In such cases, it is important not only to relieve the condition, but also to establish the cause in a timely manner and begin treatment.

Prevention of dry cough primarily consists of reducing the impact of factors that irritate the respiratory tract, as well as timely treatment of diseases that may be accompanied by this symptom.

To reduce the risk of its occurrence, it is recommended to:

• give up smoking and avoid passive inhalation of tobacco smoke;

• regularly ventilate the room and maintain sufficient air humidity;

• avoid prolonged contact with dust, smoke and other irritating substances;

• treat acute respiratory diseases in a timely manner;

• control the course of allergic diseases;

• follow the doctor’s recommendations for bronchial asthma and other chronic diseases of the respiratory system;

• maintain sufficient physical activity and a balanced diet.

Timely diagnosis helps to identify the cause of symptoms at an early stage and prevent the development of complications.

A dry cough can be a manifestation of various diseases, therefore it is first of all important to establish the cause of its occurrence. For this, the doctor conducts an examination, analyzes the symptoms and, if necessary, prescribes additional examinations.

You can preliminarily familiarize yourself with the prices for doctors’ consultations here. In more detail regarding the necessary scope of diagnostics and further treatment tactics, the doctor will orient you during the appointment.

Specialist consultations, diagnostics and other medical services are available at the medical center, which may be needed to establish the cause of symptoms and select treatment. You can make an appointment at a convenient time for you by phone or through the online form on the website.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a doctor’s consultation

Sources:

• The diagnosis and management of chronic cough
• US National Library of Medicine
• European Respiratory Society