A cough is a natural reflex of the human body to clear mucus and irritants from the airways. When we inhale something that irritates the lungs or throat, it triggers a cough to try and expel it and keep the body’s airways clear. Read through this article to learn more about the types and causes of dry cough and the best home remedies for dry cough treatment.
Types of Cough
There are six types of cough:
Productive Cough: This type of cough indicates that the patient is coughing up mucus and phlegm from his/her bronchial tubes and lungs.
Non-productive Cough: Non-productive cough is another name for dry cough, generally caused by an inflammation in the throat. It does not bring up mucus or phlegm and its triggers may include pollution, smoking, allergies, and infections.
Acute Cough: An acute cough starts all of a sudden and generally lasts for about two to three weeks.
Subacute Cough: A subacute cough pertains after an infection and lasts three to four weeks.
Chronic Cough: A chronic cough is characterised by a cough that lasts eight weeks or longer and requires medical attention.
Refractory Cough: A refractory cough is a type of chronic cough that does not respond to a treatment plan.
Dry Cough Causes
A few of the most common causes of dry, unproductive cough include:
Viral infections such as flu
Environmental irritants like dust and smoke
Poor indoor air quality
Hay fever
Post-nasal drip
Laryngitis
Pneumonia
Tuberculosis
Bronchitis
Interstitial lung disorder
Airway hyper-responsiveness
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Medication-induced dry cough
Home Remedies for Dry Cough
A dry cough can significantly impact daily life activities. Several home remedies for dry cough have been used through generations.
Note: These at-home remedies for dry cough are not one-size-fits-all. It is important to experiment with a few remedies to know the ones that best work for you.
1. Raw Honey
For adults and children aged one and above, honey treats day and nighttime dry coughs. It is known for its antibacterial properties that help coat the throat with a protective layering and alleviate irritation. A study in 2007, showed that honey was more successful than dextromethorphan in reducing nighttime coughing in children.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, known for its antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s one of the most commonly found dry cough remedies and is best absorbed into the bloodstream when consumed with black pepper in warm water. Moreover, turmeric milk also aids in sputum ejection and soothes chest congestion.
3. Ginger
Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger is known to relieve pain and discomfort caused during dry cough. It works as an expectorant that releases mucus and reduces the intensity of dry cough. Consuming ginger tea with honey is one of the most effective home remedies for dry cough.
4. Marshmallow Root
An old-fashioned home remedy for dry cough, this herb minimises the irritation caused by dry cough and works as a calming ingredient for the throat. A study in 2018 suggested that lozenges and syrups made with marshmallow root extract help relieve mild dry cough, usually within ten minutes.
5. Peppermint Tea
Known to instantly give a soothing effect on the throat, peppermint tea is one of the best-known dry cough remedies. The therapeutic properties of peppermint for dry cough treatment have been long recognised and help keep the nasal passage clear. It contains a natural decongestant known as menthol, which also reduces excessive mucus production.
6. Thyme
Used as a medicine since the Black Plague in Europe, thyme contains an antispasmodic substance that aids in calming and relaxing the throat muscles. Also known for its antioxidant properties, thyme tea is one of the most effective home remedies for dry cough and sore throat.
7. Masala Chai
Masala chai is commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as dry cough and has become increasingly popular in the United States lately. It is made of several antioxidant ingredients such as cardamom and cloves that help relieve congestion.
8. Capsaicin
Capsaicin, found in chilli peppers, is known to reduce chronic coughing. It can be taken in the form of a capsule for dry cough treatment or consumed with hot water for more soothing effects.
9. Aromatherapy with Eucalyptus
The practice of aromatherapy utilises essential oils for healing. Eucalyptus oil helps relieve a dry cough by working as a decongestant. Inhaling the steam or scenting the room with eucalyptus can also aid in a better night’s sleep.
10. Use a Humidifier
A cool-mist humidifier helps maintain the moisture content in the air. This moisture content helps soothe nasal passages and ease dry coughs.
11. Gargle with Saltwater
Gargling with warm water helps ease the discomfort caused by dry cough. Saltwater draws the moisture away from the areas of soreness in the throat, to help reduce swelling and irritation caused by dry cough.
12. Holy Basil
Commonly known as tulsi, holy basil has been used for dry cough treatment for decades. Its antitussive and anti-allergic properties help relieve cough and is safe to consume for people of all ages. It can be consumed as a tea, mixed with honey and ginger.
13. Marjoram
Marjoram is a type of oregano that has long been used to ease dry cough. It’s one of the rare dry cough remedies possessing plant-based compounds that help relieve pain and irritation associated with dry cough.
14. Garlic
Garlic is scientifically proven to boost the immune system and relieve dry cough. It works as a natural antibiotic and when consumed raw, helps mitigate sore throat pain and alleviate bacterial infections.
How to Prevent Dry Cough?
A few steps to lower the chances of dry cough are:
Avoid allergens and irritants like fragrances, mould and chemicals.
Practice hygiene at all times and frequently wash hands to prevent serious respiratory illnesses.
If you are a smoker, quit smoking and if not, avoid passive smoking.
When to See a Doctor
It’s important to note that in some cases dry coughs can last for months. Make sure to get in touch with a healthcare provider if a dry cough is accompanied by other symptoms such as:
FAQs
1. Is dry cough infectious?
Dry cough by itself is not contagious. However, it can be a symptom of communicable conditions like allergies and infections.
2. How long can a dry cough last?
A dry cough usually lasts three to four weeks and usually doesn’t require medical treatment.
3. How to stop dry coughs at nighttime?
A dry cough can worsen at night. A few effective ways to stop dry cough during nighttime are:
- Drinking herbal teas
- Gargling with saltwater
- Consuming a teaspoon of raw honey or a clove of garlic
4. Which food is best for treating dry cough?
Honey is one of the best foods for the treatment of dry cough. Additionally, alkaline fruits like bananas and blueberries contain quercetin which helps relieve dry cough.
Conclusion
In particular, the dry cough can prove to be extremely irritable. In many instances, simple home remedies and traditional ingredients such as soothing herbs, honey, ginger, saltwater, and more can help relieve dry cough. If dry coughs are persistent, it’s important to see a healthcare professional for a comprehensive approach to address and treat the primary cause. The healthcare provider will also suggest a plan of action to alleviate chronic dry cough. Your respiratory health is important to us and we are here to help you at every step. Book an appointment today!