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Last updated on 02/03/2025. A dry cough is a cough that doesn’t produce mucus. When your airways or lungs are inflamed, a tickly, irritated feeling causes you to cough. If you don’t have mucus (usually produced when you have an infection), it will be a dry, unproductive cough. Common causes include allergies, asthma, acid reflux and bronchitis. Advertisement Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. [Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising) Care at Cleveland Clinic [Find a Primary Care Provider](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/primary-care) [Schedule an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/primary-care#call-to-action-panel) Contents [Overview](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough#overview)[Possible Causes](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough#possible-causes)[Care and Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough#care-and-treatment)[When To Call the Doctor](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough#when-to-call-the-doctor)[Additional Common Questions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough#additional-common-questions) Contents [Overview](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough#overview)[Possible Causes](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough#possible-causes)[Care and Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough#care-and-treatment)[When To Call the Doctor](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough#when-to-call-the-doctor)[Additional Common Questions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough#additional-common-questions) ## Overview  **Image content:** This image is available to view online. View image online (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/-/scassets/images/org/health/articles/dry-cough) Anything that irritates or inflames your lungs or airways can cause a dry cough. ### What is a dry cough? A dry cough is a tickly irritation in your [airways](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/airway) or throat that doesn’t bring up any phlegm or [mucus](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/mucus) when you [cough](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough). Because there isn’t mucus blocking your lungs or airways, nothing comes out when you cough. A dry cough is also called an unproductive cough. Advertisement Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. [Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising) A cough is your body’s way of clearing your lungs and airways of irritants and foreign matter that can make you sick (like [viruses](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24861-virus) and [bacteria](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24494-bacteria)). You usually get a dry cough when your airways are inflamed or something irritates them. You usually get a wet cough when you have an infection that’s creating a lot of mucus to try to clear out the cause of the infection. Sometimes, it can come with other symptoms of a respiratory infection, or with chest tightness from coughing too much. ## Possible Causes ### What is dry cough a symptom of? Conditions that cause dry coughs include: - [Allergies](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8610-allergies) - [Asthma](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6424-asthma) - [Bronchitis](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3993-bronchitis) - [Croup](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8277-croup) (in children) - Exposure to chemicals or irritants - [GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17019-gerd-or-acid-reflux-or-heartburn-overview) or [laryngopharyngeal reflux](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15024-laryngopharyngeal-reflux-lpr) - Medication side effects (for instance, [blood pressure medications](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21811-antihypertensives) can sometimes cause dry cough) - [Postnasal drip](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23082-postnasal-drip) (upper airway cough syndrome) - [Smoking](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17488-smoking) - [Vocal cord dysfunction](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17623-vocal-cord-dysfunction) - [Whooping cough (pertussis)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15661-whooping-cough-pertussis) Some more serious conditions can cause a chronic dry cough, including: - [COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8709-chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd) - [Heart failure](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17069-heart-failure-understanding-heart-failure) - [Lung cancer](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4375-lung-cancer) - [Pneumonia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4471-pneumonia) - [Pulmonary embolism](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17400-pulmonary-embolism) - [Sleep apnea](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8718-sleep-apnea) - [Tuberculosis](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11301-tuberculosis) #### Do colds, flu and COVID cause a dry cough? [COVID](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21214-coronavirus-covid-19) often causes a dry cough because of how much it inflames and irritates your [lungs](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/8960-lungs) and airways. But it can also cause a wet cough for some people. Advertisement Colds and [flu](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu) tend to cause wet, productive coughs when you’re sick. Later, a dry cough may linger — sometimes for weeks — while you recover. ## Care and Treatment ### How do I stop my dry cough? Most dry coughs clear up when you treat the underlying cause. Your provider may get a chest [X-ray](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/10228-chest-x-ray) and listen to your heart and lungs to help determine (or rule out) the cause. #### Remedies for dry cough in adults To treat a cough at home that’s caused by allergies, previous infections or less serious causes, you can try: - **Over-the-counter (OTC) cough suppressants**. Ask a provider which ones they recommend. - **Hydration**. Drinking plenty of liquids to stay hydrated can help a cough. Hot tea or water with honey and lemon can soothe irritated airways. - **Cough drops or hard candies**. Sucking on a hard lozenge promotes saliva (spit) production that soothes your throat. Some have ingredients that numb the tickly feeling. But sometimes, ingredients like menthol can dry out your throat if you use them too much. - **A spoonful of honey**. Studies show that [honey can stop coughs](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/honey-for-sore-throat-and-cough/), as well as most OTC cough medicines. - **A humidifier**. A cool-mist humidifier puts moisture into the air. This extra moisture soothes nasal passages and sore throats and eases dry coughs. You can also get more moisture by taking a steamy shower or hot bath. Most medicines for cough aren’t approved for kids under 4. Running a humidifier and sitting in the bathroom with a hot shower going can help. Ask your child’s [pediatrician](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/21716-what-is-a-pediatrician) how to treat a dry cough. ### Can dry cough be prevented? You can lower your chances of getting a dry cough by: - Avoiding irritants and allergens like chemicals, mold and fragrances - Washing your hands frequently to prevent respiratory illnesses - [Quitting smoking](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/quitting-smoking) and avoiding [secondhand smoke](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10644-secondhand-smoke-dangers) Care at Cleveland Clinic [Find a Primary Care Provider](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/primary-care) [Schedule an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/primary-care#call-to-action-panel) ## When To Call the Doctor ### When should I see a healthcare provider? You should call your healthcare provider if you experience serious symptoms, like: - [Coughing up blood](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17696-coughing-up-blood) - Difficulty breathing or [shortness of breath](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/16942-dyspnea) - Extreme fatigue - Fever and chills - Sudden, unexplained chest pain - [Wheezing](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15203-wheezing) #### How long is it OK to have a dry cough? If you have a dry cough that lasts longer than three weeks — especially if you’re not sure of the cause — contact a healthcare provider. They can help you get to the bottom of whatever’s causing it and might be able to give you some symptom relief. ## Additional Common Questions ### Is a dry cough serious? Rarely, a dry cough indicates a serious, potentially life-threatening health problem. You should see your healthcare provider if you have concerns about a cough. ### Why does my chest hurt when I cough? Many people have a feeling of chest tightness with a dry cough. If you have a forceful cough or one that lasts longer than three weeks (chronic cough), it can strain your lungs or chest muscles. You may develop chest pain from coughing. It might feel like pressure (like there’s a weight on your chest) or a squeezing sensation. Advertisement If your chest muscles hurt from coughing, over-the-counter pain relievers like [acetaminophen](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18829-acetaminophen-capsules-or-tablets) (Tylenol®) or [ibuprofen](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20168-ibuprofen-capsules-or-tablets) (Advil®, Motrin®) might help. **Seek immediate care if you have sudden, unexplained chest pain. It can be a sign of a [heart attack.](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16818-heart-attack-myocardial-infarction)** ### A note from Cleveland Clinic Dry cough — a tickly, irritating feeling that doesn’t bring up any mucus — can range from annoying to downright painful. It can be frustrating to find the cause and get relief. Fortunately, most causes of dry cough aren’t serious. At-home remedies and OTC medications can sometimes help your cough feel better until you can treat the cause. See a healthcare provider any time you have a lingering, unexplained cough. Advertisement [](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)[](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/) [](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/)  ## Better health starts here Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more. [Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026)[Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up) [Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up)[Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026) ### Experts You Can Trust Medically Reviewed. Last updated on 02/03/2025. Learn more about the [Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/about) and our [editorial process](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/editorial-policy). ### References Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. #### View Sources ### Experts You Can Trust Medically Reviewed. Last updated on 02/03/2025. ### References Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. - Abuelgasim H, Albury C, Lee J. Effectiveness of honey for symptomatic relief in upper respiratory tract infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32817011/)*. *BMJ Evid Based Med.* 2021 Apr;26(2):57-64. Accessed 2/3/2025. - American Academy of Pediatrics. Coughs and Colds: Medicines or Home Remedies *(https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/chest-lungs/Pages/Coughs-and-Colds-Medicines-or-Home-Remedies.aspx)*. Last updated 12/2/2022. Accessed 2/3/2025. - American Lung Association. Learn About Cough *(https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/warning-signs-of-lung-disease/cough/learn-about-cough)*. Accessed 2/3/2025. - Mahashur A. Chronic dry cough: Diagnosis and management approaches *(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4298918/)*. *Lung India.* 2015;32(1):44-9. Accessed 2/3/2025. - Merck Manual (Consumer Version). Cough in Adults *(https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/lung-and-airway-disorders/symptoms-of-lung-disorders/cough-in-adults)*. Reviewed/revised 11/2023. Accessed Accessed 2/3/2025. - Merck Manual (Consumer Version). Cough in Children *(https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/symptoms-in-infants-and-children/cough-in-children)*. Reviewed/revised 11/2022. Accessed 2/3/2025. - Padma L. Current drugs for the treatment of dry cough *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24490443)*. *J Assoc Physicians India.* 2013;61(5):9-13. Accessed 2/3/2025. ### Care at Cleveland Clinic Cleveland Clinic’s primary care providers offer lifelong medical care. From sinus infections and high blood pressure to preventive screening, we’re here for you.  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### A note from Cleveland Clinic Dry cough — a tickly, irritating feeling that doesn’t bring up any mucus — can range from annoying to downright painful. It can be frustrating to find the cause and get relief. Fortunately, most causes of dry cough aren’t serious. At-home remedies and OTC medications can sometimes help your cough feel better until you can treat the cause. See a healthcare provider any time you have a lingering, unexplained cough. ### Experts You Can Trust Medically Reviewed. Last updated on 02/03/2025. Learn more about the [Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/about) and our [editorial process](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/editorial-policy). ### References Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. #### ### Experts You Can Trust Medically Reviewed. Last updated on 02/03/2025. ### References Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. - Abuelgasim H, Albury C, Lee J. Effectiveness of honey for symptomatic relief in upper respiratory tract infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32817011/)*. *BMJ Evid Based Med.* 2021 Apr;26(2):57-64. Accessed 2/3/2025. - American Academy of Pediatrics. Coughs and Colds: Medicines or Home Remedies *(https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/chest-lungs/Pages/Coughs-and-Colds-Medicines-or-Home-Remedies.aspx)*. Last updated 12/2/2022. Accessed 2/3/2025. - American Lung Association. Learn About Cough *(https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/warning-signs-of-lung-disease/cough/learn-about-cough)*. Accessed 2/3/2025. - Mahashur A. Chronic dry cough: Diagnosis and management approaches *(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4298918/)*. *Lung India.* 2015;32(1):44-9. Accessed 2/3/2025. - Merck Manual (Consumer Version). Cough in Adults *(https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/lung-and-airway-disorders/symptoms-of-lung-disorders/cough-in-adults)*. Reviewed/revised 11/2023. Accessed Accessed 2/3/2025. - Merck Manual (Consumer Version). Cough in Children *(https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/symptoms-in-infants-and-children/cough-in-children)*. Reviewed/revised 11/2022. Accessed 2/3/2025. - Padma L. Current drugs for the treatment of dry cough *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24490443)*. *J Assoc Physicians India.* 2013;61(5):9-13. Accessed 2/3/2025.