Types of dry cough and their potential causes

Overview

A dry cough, also known as a non-productive cough, is a cough that does not bring up any phlegm or mucus.

Instead, it feels more like a tickle or irritation in the throat or air passages. A wet cough, on the other hand, brings up mucus as the body tries to clear irritants or infection.

Knowing whether a cough is dry or wet is important because it helps narrow down potential triggers and supports more effective management.

If a dry cough persists, worsens, disrupts your sleep or breathing, or is accompanied by warning signs, it’s wise to see an Australian GP for assessment.

Types of dry cough

Below are some common types of dry cough:

Tickly cough

• This type of cough feels like a mild irritation in the throat. It is often worse at night or when the air is cooler or drier.

Persistent (chronic) dry cough

• This cough typically lasts longer than 8 weeks and is often linked to underlying health conditions.

Nocturnal dry cough

• This cough occurs mainly at night and is commonly associated with conditions such as asthma or postnasal drip.

Exercise-induced dry cough

• This type is triggered during or after physical activity and may be related to asthma or airway sensitivity.

Dry barking cough

• A harsh, brassy, barking cough that is more common in children than adults.

Paroxysmal cough

• This involves sudden, uncontrollable coughing fits and is commonly linked to whooping cough (pertussis).

Potential causes

The following are common causes of a dry cough:

Viral respiratory infections

• A dry cough often occurs in the early stages of viral infections, such as colds or the flu.
• A post-viral cough may continue even after recovery due to lingering airway irritation without mucus production.

Allergies and environmental irritants

• Seasonal pollen, dust, pet dander, and mould can commonly trigger a dry cough, particularly during hay fever season.
• Smoke and fine particles from bushfires may irritate the throat and lungs, triggering coughing even in people without lung disease.
• Poor air quality, pollution, and dust storms can also cause coughing, wheezing, or throat irritation.

Asthma (common in Australia)

• A dry cough may be a sign of sensitive airways. Asthma often causes coughing that worsens at night or during exercise, along with wheezing or chest tightness.
• Smoke or poor air quality, especially during bushfires, can significantly worsen asthma symptoms.

Postnasal drip (upper airway cough syndrome)

• Sinusitis or hay fever can cause mucus to drip down the back of the throat, leading to irritation and a persistent dry cough.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD)

• Acid reflux can irritate the throat and voice box, triggering a chronic dry cough, particularly after meals or when lying down.

Medications

• Certain medications, especially ACE inhibitors used for blood pressure, can cause a long-term dry cough.

Whooping cough (pertussis)

• A paroxysmal dry cough with intense coughing fits may indicate whooping cough.

Note: Booster vaccinations are recommended in Australia.

Chronic lung conditions

• Conditions such as early-stage chronic bronchitis or COPD may initially present with a dry or mild cough before mucus becomes more noticeable.

Lifestyle and environmental triggers

• Smoking, second-hand smoke exposure, or working in dusty or polluted environments can irritate the airways and cause an ongoing dry cough.

Diagnosis

To identify the cause of a dry cough, a GP may suggest the following investigations:

• Chest X-ray or CT scan
• Spirometry (asthma diagnosis)
• Respiratory swab (COVID-19, Influenza, RSV)
• Allergy testing
• Acid reflux evaluation
• Full blood count (FBC), to check for signs of inflammation or infection
• Throat or nasal examination

Treatment options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the dry cough and may include:

• Antihistamines for allergies
• Inhalers for asthma
• Acid reflux medications
• Cough suppressants (in select cases)
• Nasal sprays for postnasal drip
• Hydration, humidifier use, and warm fluids to soothe the throat
• Avoiding triggers such as smoke or pollen

Home remedies

Simple at-home care can help soothe irritation and support recovery:

• Warm honey drinks (not suitable for children under 1 year)
• Steam inhalation to calm irritated airways
• Staying hydrated to keep airways moist
• Menthol lozenges
• Using a humidifier if the air is dry
• Elevating the head at night to reduce postnasal drip

When to see a GP in Australia

You should consider consulting a GP if you experience any of the following:

• A cough lasting longer than 2–3 weeks
• Fever, chest pain, or shortness of breath
• Blood in phlegm
• Night sweats or unexplained weight loss
• Wheezing or chest tightness
• A cough disrupting sleep or daily activities
• Cough following bushfire smoke exposure

If you prefer convenience, Hola Health online doctors can assess your cough, prescribe treatment, and arrange further tests if required.

How Hola Health can help

If managing a dry cough feels confusing or inconvenient, Hola Health makes it easy to speak with an online GP from home.

• Access online GP consultations from the comfort of your home
• Receive prescriptions for inhalers, antihistamines, or reflux medications
• Get assessment for asthma or respiratory infections
• Obtain a medical certificate if a cough affects work
• Receive advice on managing environmental and lifestyle triggers

Conclusion

A dry cough may seem harmless, but a persistent cough should not be ignored. Identifying the underlying trigger is key to effective treatment and long-term relief. Consulting a healthcare professional ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.

FAQs

How long does a dry cough last after a cold?

A dry cough can last several weeks after a cold or flu. This is known as a post-viral cough and should be reviewed by a GP if it persists or worsens.

Is a dry cough a sign of asthma?

Yes. A dry cough that worsens at night or with exercise may indicate asthma or airway sensitivity.

Is a dry cough a symptom of COVID-19?

Yes. Viral respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, can cause a dry cough during early infection or recovery.

What allergies commonly cause a dry cough in Australia?

Common triggers include seasonal pollen (hay fever), mould, pet dander, and dust.