A dry cough (non-productive cough) can occur even without the typical symptoms of a cold or flu. According to the German Society for General and Family Medicine, persistent dry cough may signal several underlying medical conditions that require accurate diagnosis and treatment.
What Is a Dry Cough?
A dry cough is characterized by irritation in the airways without mucus production. It may worsen at night, during exercise, or after exposure to irritants.
Common Causes of Dry Cough
1. Allergies
Allergens such as dust, pollen, or pet dander can irritate the respiratory tract and trigger a dry cough.
2. Asthma
Airway inflammation from asthma may show up primarily as a dry cough.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Stomach acid reaching the throat can cause chronic irritation and coughing.
4. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
A progressive lung condition that may cause a persistent dry cough.
5. Pneumothorax
Air trapped between pleural layers leads to sudden cough and breathing difficulty.
6. Medication Side Effects
Particularly ACE inhibitors used for hypertension and heart failure.
7. Inhalation of Irritants
Exposure to smoke, fumes, dust, and chemicals.
8. Eosinophilic Bronchitis
A non-asthmatic inflammation of the bronchial lining causing chronic cough.
9. Foreign Body in the Airways
A lodged object can cause a continuous dry cough.
10. Heart Failure
Cough tends to worsen at night due to fluid buildup.
11. Sarcoidosis
A rare multi-system inflammatory disease that often affects the lungs.
12. Tumors of the Bronchi or Lungs
Both benign and malignant growths may irritate the airways.
13. Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
A bacterial infection known for intense bouts of dry coughing.
14. Laryngeal or Vocal Cord Disorders
Structural or functional problems of the throat.
15. Tuberculosis (TB)
Persistent dry cough is an early sign of infection.
16. Interstitial Lung Diseases
Such as pulmonary fibrosis or alveolitis, causing lung scarring.
17. Esophageal Diverticulum Obstruction
Can irritate nearby airways.
18. Hodgkin Lymphoma
A malignant disease of the lymphatic system that may present with cough.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek medical attention if the dry cough:
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Lasts more than a few weeks
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Is accompanied by shortness of breath
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Causes chest pain
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Leads to a rapid heart rate
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Comes with wheezing
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Causes bluish discoloration of skin or lips (cyanosis)
Early diagnosis helps prevent complications and ensures appropriate treatment.
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