Dry cough

Not All Coughs Are the Same

When you have a cold, two different types of cough may occur:

A productive cough: A cough that produces phlegm, which helps the body clear pathogens from the respiratory tract.

Non-productive or dry cough (without phlegm): A cough in which no mucus is coughed up.

A dry cough usually occurs at the onset of a cold or acute bronchitis and transitions into a productive cough after about two to three days. Once this phase has passed, a dry cough often recurs after a cold and typically subsides within three weeks. In rare cases—for example, when pathogens such as adenoviruses are involved—the recovery phase can last up to eight weeks.

The cause of a dry, irritating cough is inflammation in the airways. This leads to irritation of the cough receptors in the larynx, the lower throat, and the bronchi. Loud, harsh, and sometimes barking or wheezing sounds are typical of this nonproductive, dry type of cough. Since a dry cough involves no mucus production, the persistent cough is often perceived as scratchy and painful.

The cough is often particularly severe in the evening and at night. The constant urge to cough prevents restful sleep and leads to exhaustion over time. The constant coughing fits irritate the mucous membranes throughout the respiratory tract, which is why a dry throat, hoarseness, and chest pain may also occur.

At our pharmacy, we offer herbal, homeopathic, and chemical products in the form of teas, drops, syrups, tablets, and lozenges to relieve dry coughs. Stop by—we’d be happy to advise you.