Dry Cough and Sore Throat

Dry cough and throat problems are some of the most common ailments that are experienced by many people. Experiencing dry cough, sore throat (also known as pharyngitis) and headache, at the same time can be quite uncomfortable. More commonly, cough and sore throat results from an irritation of the throat, trachea and the bronchial tubes in the lungs. Such irritation, on the other hand, can be caused by several factors, which are explained below.

Dry Cough and Pharyngitis Causes

Sometimes, these conditions can occur simultaneously, while at other times, dry cough can follow a sore throat. Dry cough can be caused by various factors, out of which the most important ones are asthma, airborne allergies and inhalation of foreign particles and irritants. Another common cause can be sinus infection. Even post nasal drip can lead to soreness in throat and cough at times. In postnasal drip, the sinus produces excessive mucus, which then drips down the back of the throat to cause sore throat and cough. As the mucus is too thin, the resulting cough is usually dry.

Apart from these, these conditions can be associated with the infection of the upper respiratory tract, dry air, smoking, infection caused by adenovirus, whooping cough, laryngitis and pharyngitis. Acute bronchitis can also start with a dry cough, which is then followed by the production of a small amount of white or yellow sputum, wheezing, sore throat, fever and a burning sensation in the chest. If sore throat is due to bacterial infection caused by the strep bacteria, then it is usually accompanied by a high fever. If one experiences dry cough, sore throat, but no fever, then it is usually not an infection caused by streptococcus bacteria.

Treatment for Dry Cough and Pharyngitis

The treatment depends to a great extent on the underlying causes. If the condition is caused by bacterial infection, then antibiotics can be used. Even cough suppressants and throat lozenges can help to reduce the cough and the soreness of the throat. If post nasal drip is the main reason behind these health problems, then it can be relieved with the help of decongestant. If the pain in the throat is unbearable, then you can take painkillers, but only if your physician permits their use. Along with medications, a few simple home remedies can also help to reduce cough and soreness of the throat. Gargling with warm saline water is one such simple remedy. For best results, gargle several times a day with slightly warm saline water.

Another home remedy for this condition is, lemon juice with a few drops of honey added to it. You can also mix about 1 to 2 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. A tea prepared with lemon, cayenne, honey and apple cider vinegar can also provide relief in sore throat. Other herbs that you can use are, licorice, slippery elm, sage, aloe vera juice, garlic, ginger, chamomile tea and thyme. In addition to these, one should increase the amount of fluid taken daily. Drinking lots of fluid and hot beverages can also help you to get rid of these conditions.

One also needs to take enough rest and follow a healthy and balanced diet to accelerate the healing process. Many times, installing a humidifier can also help to get rid of sore throat by adding moisture to the air. But, if your cough and scratchy throat persist for several days, or if these are accompanied by high fever, severe pain in the throat, rash, enlarged or swollen lymph nodes in the neck, as well as blood in saliva, then immediately evaluate the condition by visiting your health care provider.