A dry cough, in most cases, is not a symptom of a serious health condition; however, it could be quite painful and irritating to your throat. The act of coughing is considered to be the body’s way of clearing itself off foreign particles and irritants that enter your throat or airways. However, if you have been experiencing a dry cough for more than a week, it could also indicate more complicated health conditions like tuberculosis, asthma and lung diseases. It is therefore recommended that you visit your health care specialist in order to find out the exact cause for your condition.
The act of coughing is not abnormal and actually helps in expelling dust, irritants and foreign substances form the lungs, throat or airways. However, when your cough persists over long periods of time, it could be a symptom of an underlying condition. Here are some common conditions related to cough; acute sinusitis, allergies, bronchitis, common cold, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and many more. Treating the underlying cause will also help in getting rid of the condition you are facing. In the mean while, you can follow these suggestions to experience relief form the dry cough and resulting throat irritation.
- Drink warm water throughout the day. Warm water will soothe your throat irritation and will also reduce your coughing bouts. Water will help in rehydrating your body and increase the level of mucus production.
- You may also add a teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm water and drink this tonic once a day. Turmeric contains effective anti bacterial properties which will help in eliminating any bacteria from the throat and will also help in soothing the burning sensation.
- Avoid eating fried and oily food stuffs while experiencing dry coughs, as this will worsen your condition. You may indulge in hot soups and thick broths instead.
- Increasing your dietary intake of ginger and garlic will also prove beneficial in alleviating your condition. Including these in soups is a great option, as they increase the taste and flavor of the same. Additionally, you may just suck on a piece of ginger, as ginger is very effective in soothing a throat irritation.
- Eating healthy foods like vegetables, lean meats and fresh fruits will provide your body with essential vitamins and minerals. This in turn will help boost your immune system, thus relieving you of the dry cough and other related conditions.
- Gargling with warm salt water will also provide you with quick relief. Salt is an effective anti bacterial agent. This solution will have an instant soothing effect on your throat.
- Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol when faced with a dry cough, as both these habits dry out the throat excessively and aggravate the condition.
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