A dry cough is a condition characterized by a persistent cough that produces little or no mucus. It usually arises due to irritation or inflammation of the throat, bronchi, and lungs.

Unlike productive coughs, which help to clear mucus and other materials from the respiratory tract, a dry cough can be more serious and persistent and can signal an underlying medical condition. Here we discuss some of the most common causes of a dry cough.

1. Viral Infections

Viruses are a common cause of a dry cough. Influenza, the common cold, and other viral respiratory infections can cause coughing as the body tries to clear the respiratory tract of the virus.

Symptoms can include fever, runny nose, sore throat, and fatigue.

2. Allergies

Allergies to substances like pollen, dust mites, and animal dander can lead to a dry cough. When the allergen is inhaled, it irritates the respiratory tract, causing the body to produce a cough.

Other symptoms can include sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD, a condition characterized by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus, can cause a cough. The acid irritates the lining of the esophagus, causing the body to produce a cough.

Other symptoms can include heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain.

4. Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. In some people, coughing can be the only symptom of asthma.

Asthma occurs due to inflammation in the airways, which results in narrowing and difficulty breathing.

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5. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is a long-term lung disease that includes both chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It often causes a chronic cough as well as other symptoms such as shortness of breath and tightness in the chest.

COPD is most commonly caused by smoking, but can also be caused by air pollution, secondhand smoke, and other environmental factors.

6. Medications

Some medications, such as ACE inhibitors used to treat high blood pressure, can cause a persistent cough. This occurs due to the medication’s effect on the body’s production of bradykinin, a chemical that can irritate the throat.

7. Lung Cancer

Lung cancer can cause a cough that may or may not be productive. This occurs because the cancerous cells can cause inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tract, leading to a persistent cough.

8. Environmental Irritants

Exposure to environmental irritants, such as chemical fumes, dust, and smoke, can cause a dry cough. Other symptoms can include difficulty breathing, wheezing, and chest tightness.

This is especially true for those who work in occupations where they are exposed to these substances regularly.

9. Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a rare lung condition characterized by the formation of scar tissue in the lungs. Symptoms can include a persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

The disease is often caused by exposure to environmental irritants or other medical conditions.

10. Postnasal Drip

Postnasal drip occurs when excess mucus drips down the back of the throat, causing irritation and a dry cough. It can occur due to allergies, colds, or other respiratory infections. Other symptoms can include a runny nose and sore throat.