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[Skip to the first question](https://www.osmosis.org/answers/non-productive-cough#question) # Non-Productive Cough ## What Is It, Causes, Diagnosis, and More Author: Lily Guo Editor: Alyssa Haag Editor: Józia McGowan, DO Illustrator: Jessica Reynolds, MS Copyeditor: Sadia Zaman, MBBS, BSc Modified: Mar 04, 2025 ### What is a non-productive cough? A [non-productive cough](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_a_cough_\(acute\):_Clinical_sciences) refers to a cough that is dry in nature and does not produce [sputum](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Respiratory:_Collecting_a_sputum_specimen), which refers to mucus that settles in the lower [airways](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Respiratory_system_anatomy_and_physiology) of lungs during an infection or [chronic illness](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Chronic_Illness). This is in contrast to a productive cough, also known as a wet cough, where the act of coughing elicits sputum, and is typically a sign of [chronic lung disease](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_a_cough_\(subacute_and_chronic\):_Clinical_sciences), [congestive heart failure](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Congestive_Heart_Failure), viral illnesses, or infection.  ### Is a non-productive cough bad? A [non-productive cough](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_a_cough_\(acute\):_Clinical_sciences) is not necessarily bad if it is [self-limiting](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Infectious_endocarditis:_Clinical_sciences) and resolves on its own, as coughing is an important natural defense mechanism in the respiratory tract. Coughs that occur in association with an [upper respiratory tract](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Upper_respiratory_tract_infection) (i.e., involving the [nose](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Anatomy_of_the_nose_and_paranasal_sinuses), [pharynx](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Anatomy_of_the_pharynx_and_esophagus), or [larynx](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Anatomy_clinical_correlates:_Viscera_of_the_neck)) infection typically resolve within three weeks. However, chronic coughs (i.e., a persistent dry cough lasting more than eight weeks) can lead to considerable [stress](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Stress) and be detrimental to an individual's sleep and [lifestyle](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Chronic_disease:_Nursing). In more severe cases, chronic cough can cause rib fractures, [pneumothorax](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Pneumothorax) (i.e., air around or outside the lung), [pneumomediastinum](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Pneumothorax:_Clinical_sciences) (i.e., when air is present in the space between the two lungs), and [subcutaneous emphysema](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Emphysema) (i.e., when air becomes trapped [under the skin](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Medication_administration_-_Insulin:_Nursing_pharmacology)). It is important to consult with a [healthcare provider](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Issues_and_Changes_Affecting_Health_Care_Delivery) if the symptoms of cough do not subside over [time](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Drug_administration_and_dosing_regimens), as this can indicate an underlying concern. ### What causes a non-productive cough? There are several causes of non-productive coughs, including viral illness, such as the common cold, or [bronchospasm](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma:_Clinical), which refers to spasms in the [bronchial tubes](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Respiratory_system_anatomy_and_physiology) caused by irritation. Common triggers of bronchospasm include infections, cold air, or chemicals and fumes in the environment. [Allergies](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Pediatric_allergies:_Clinical) and post nasal drip are also common causes of a [non-productive cough](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_a_cough_\(acute\):_Clinical_sciences). In addition, blockage of the [airway](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Anatomy_clinical_correlates:_Viscera_of_the_neck) by an inhaled object, such as food or a pill, can lead to a non-productive cough. A chronic dry cough may also be a sign of cough variant [asthma](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma), a type of asthma in which the main symptom is a dry, non-productive cough. Asthma is characterized by swelling of the [airways](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Respiratory_system_anatomy_and_physiology) after exposure to an [irritant](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Papulosquamous_and_inflammatory_skin_disorders:_Pathology_review), making it difficult for air to enter the lungs. [Obstructive sleep apnea](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Sleep_apnea) (OSA) is being increasingly recognized as another cause of chronic non-productive cough. OSA occurs when muscles supporting the [soft tissues](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_extremity_injury:_Clinical_sciences) in the [throat](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Pediatric_upper_airway_conditions:_Clinical), such as the tongue and [soft palate](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Anatomy_of_the_oral_cavity_\(dentistry\)), temporarily relax, thereby narrowing or closing the airway, and momentarily halting breathing. Additionally, individuals who are taking certain medications to control [high blood pressure](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Hypertension), like [ACE inhibitors](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Angiotensin-converting_enzyme_\(ACE\)_inhibitors:_Nursing_pharmacology) (e.g., [captopril](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/ACE_inhibitors,_ARBs_and_direct_renin_inhibitors), [enalapril](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/ACE_inhibitors,_ARBs_and_direct_renin_inhibitors) maleate, and [lisinopril](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/ACE_inhibitors,_ARBs_and_direct_renin_inhibitors)), commonly experience a dry, tickly and bothersome cough as a side effect. [Gastroesophageal reflux disease](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Gastroesophageal_reflux_disease:_Clinical_sciences) (GERD), a disorder in which acid from the stomach enters the [esophagus](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Esophageal_motility), can lead to dry cough in approximately 40% of individuals. Lastly, early symptoms of [lung cancer](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Lung_cancer) may include cough, [chest pain](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_chest_pain:_Clinical_sciences), and [wheezing](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma:_Clinical). ### What are the signs and symptoms of a non-productive cough? The signs and symptoms of a [non-productive cough](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_a_cough_\(acute\):_Clinical_sciences) can depend on the [underlying cause](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Disease_causality). If the cough is due to the common cold, the symptoms of dry coughing may persist for several weeks longer than other symptoms of the cold and the cough may worsen in the nighttime. If the cough is due to [asthma](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma), the individual may experience concurrent [wheezing](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma:_Clinical), [shortness of breath](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Hypersensitivity_pneumonitis), or a feeling of tightness in the chest. In up to 75% of those with GERD-related cough, the typical [heartburn](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_upper_abdominal_pain:_Clinical_sciences) pain is not experienced, thereby making GERD more difficult to diagnose. ### How is a non-productive cough diagnosed? A [non-productive cough](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_a_cough_\(acute\):_Clinical_sciences) is usually diagnosed based on the individual's symptoms and their [medical history](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Health_history:_Nursing). A clinician may ask if there was any history of [sputum production](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Respiratory:_Collecting_a_sputum_specimen) or about the duration of the cough. They may also assess for potential triggers and review the individual’s [medication history](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Antiretrovirals_for_HIVAIDS_-_Integrase_strand_transfer_inhibitors:_Nursing_pharmacology). They will then perform a physical examination, looking specifically at the head, neck, chest, and lungs. [Imaging tests](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Abdominal_pain:_Clinical) of the chest, such as [X-rays](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Reading_a_chest_X-ray) or CT scans, can aid in diagnosis. Specifically, [asthma](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma) can be diagnosed with [spirometry](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma:_Clinical_sciences), a tool in which one breathes out forcefully to measure the force of [breath](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Breathing_cycle) and capacity of the lungs. GERD can be diagnosed with upper gastrointestinal [endoscopy](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Esophagitis:_Clinical_sciences) (i.e., a procedure that involves the insertion of a flexible scope into the [esophagus](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Esophageal_motility) and stomach) and a pH acid test. A [bronchoscopy](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_upper_airway_obstruction_\(pediatrics\):_Clinical_sciences) may also be performed, where the tube is inserted through the mouth to visualize the [trachea](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Trachea_and_bronchi_histology) and [airways](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Respiratory_system_anatomy_and_physiology). ### How is a non-productive cough treated? Common [treatments](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/KIF1A-associated_neurological_disorder:_Year_of_the_Zebra) of an acute [non-productive cough](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_a_cough_\(acute\):_Clinical_sciences) include taking over-the-counter (OTC) [throat](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Pediatric_upper_airway_conditions:_Clinical) lozenges or taking a hot shower to ease the dryness and irritation of the throat. It is also important to treat any underlying causes. If the cause of a non-productive cough is limited to a cold, a cough suppressant containing [dextromethorphan](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Knowledge_Shot:_What_over-the-counter_medicine_works_best_at_kicking_the_cough_of_the_common_cold_and_bronchitis) may be sufficient. If [asthma](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma) and [bronchospasm](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma:_Clinical) are present, [bronchodilators](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Bronchodilators) can rapidly relieve coughing and other symptoms, including [wheezing](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma:_Clinical) and [shortness of breath](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Hypersensitivity_pneumonitis). A commonly prescribed quick-relief [bronchodilator](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Bronchodilators) is [albuterol](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Bronchodilators:_Nursing_pharmacology), which is administered through an inhaler to relax and open [airways](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Respiratory_system_anatomy_and_physiology). Additionally, [inhaled corticosteroids](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Inhaled_Corticosteroids), mast cell stabilizers (e.g., [cromolyn](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Mast_cell_stabilizers_-_Inhaled:_Nursing_pharmacology), nedocromil) and leukotriene inhibitors (e.g., Accolate, [montelukast](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Leukotriene_modifiers:_Nursing_pharmacology), Singulair) can all reduce [airway inflammation](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Pulmonary_corticosteroids_and_mast_cell_inhibitors). Other treatments include [lifestyle](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Chronic_disease:_Nursing) modifications, [antacids](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Antacids:_Nursing_pharmacology) and proton-pump inhibitors for those with GERD, and [antihistamines](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Antihistamines:_Nursing_pharmacology) for those with [allergies](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Pediatric_allergies:_Clinical). If the cause of non-productive cough is [ACE inhibitors](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Angiotensin-converting_enzyme_\(ACE\)_inhibitors:_Nursing_pharmacology), other medications to lower [blood pressure](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Blood_Pressure) may be considered, such as [thiazide diuretics](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Thiazide_and_thiazide-like_diuretics) (e.g., [hydrochlorothiazide](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Diuretics)). For those with OSA and a chronic cough, [continuous positive airway pressure](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Sleep_apnea:_Clinical_sciences) (i.e., CPAP) therapy can reduce or resolve the cough. If the etiology of cough remains unknown and treatments against potential aggravating factors do not help, antitussive agents (i.e., cough suppressants) are commonly used. In addition to dextromethorphan, a common antitussive used in clinical practice is [codeine](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Opioid_agonists,_mixed_agonist-antagonists_and_partial_agonists). Antitussive agents act directly on the cough center in the brain and decrease the nerve impulses to the muscles that produce cough. ### What are the most important facts to know about non-productive coughs? A [non-productive cough](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_a_cough_\(acute\):_Clinical_sciences), also known as a dry cough, refers to a cough that does not produce [sputum](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Respiratory:_Collecting_a_sputum_specimen). There can be several causes, including viral illness, [asthma](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Asthma), GERD, and OSA. Non-productive coughs are typically [self-limiting](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Infectious_endocarditis:_Clinical_sciences), however, a chronic cough may signify a more serious [underlying cause](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Disease_causality). Diagnosing a non-productive cough typically involves careful history taking and a physical exam performed by a clinician. Imaging, [bronchoscopy](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Approach_to_upper_airway_obstruction_\(pediatrics\):_Clinical_sciences), and [endoscopy](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Esophagitis:_Clinical_sciences) can also be used to aid in diagnosis. Treatment usually involves taking antitussives, [bronchodilators](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Bronchodilators), or [corticosteroids](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Corticosteroid_Therapy) if necessary, and treating the underlying cause. Related videos and concepts [ 8:45Respiratory system anatomy and physiology](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Respiratory_system_anatomy_and_physiology) [ 8:12Upper respiratory tract infection](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Upper_respiratory_tract_infection) [ 13:25Influenza virus](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Influenza_virus) [ 3:54Knowledge Shot: What over-the-counter medicine works best at kicking the cough of the common cold and bronchitis](https://www.osmosis.org/learn/Knowledge_Shot:_What_over-the-counter_medicine_works_best_at_kicking_the_cough_of_the_common_cold_and_bronchitis) ## References *** Blahd, W. H., Husney, A. & Romito, K. (2020, February 26). Coughs, Age 12 and Older. In University of Michigan Health. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/cough. Drugs.com. (2022). List of mast cell stabilizers. In Drugs.com. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from <https://www.drugs.com/drug-class/mast-cell-stabilizers.html> Duda, K. (2020, April 2). Is your cold causing a wet or dry cough? In Verywell Health. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/productive-cough-770574. Mahashur, A. (2015). Chronic dry cough: diagnostic and management approaches. Lung India: Official Organ of Indian Chest Society. 32(1):44-9. DOI:10.4103/0970-2113.148450 Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020, May 22). Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In Mayo Clinic. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/symptoms-causes/syc-20361940. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021, July 27). Obstructive sleep apnea. In Mayo Clinic. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obstructive-sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352090>. Narayan, S. & Paparello, S. (2022, February 7). Allergies, Cold, Flu or COVID-19? How to Tell the Difference. In Emerson Hospital. Retrieved February 11, 2022, from https://www.emersonhospital.org/articles/allergies-or-covid-19. Overlack, A. (1996). ACE inhibitor-induced cough and bronchospasm. Incidence, mechanisms and management. Drug Saf. 15(1):72-78. DOI:10.2165/00002018-199615010-00006 Rosamond Urgent Care. (2021, October 5). Coughs: Types of coughs. In Rosamond Urgent Care. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from https://rosamondurgentcare.com/patient-services/coughs/ Spader, C. (2020, February 13). Why asthma makes you cough. In Healthgrades. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/asthma/why-asthma-makes-you-cough Sather, R., Foley, M., & Haldeman-Englert, C. (2022). Sputum culture. In University of Rochester Medical Center. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from <https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=sputum_culture> Winchester Hospital. (2022). Bronchospasm - Adult. In Winchester Hospital. 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Blahd, W. H., Husney, A. & Romito, K. (2020, February 26). Coughs, Age 12 and Older. In University of Michigan Health. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/cough. Drugs.com. (2022). List of mast cell stabilizers. In Drugs.com. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from <https://www.drugs.com/drug-class/mast-cell-stabilizers.html> Duda, K. (2020, April 2). Is your cold causing a wet or dry cough? In Verywell Health. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/productive-cough-770574. Mahashur, A. (2015). Chronic dry cough: diagnostic and management approaches. Lung India: Official Organ of Indian Chest Society. 32(1):44-9. DOI:10.4103/0970-2113.148450 Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020, May 22). Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In Mayo Clinic. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/symptoms-causes/syc-20361940. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021, July 27). Obstructive sleep apnea. In Mayo Clinic. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obstructive-sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352090>. Narayan, S. & Paparello, S. (2022, February 7). Allergies, Cold, Flu or COVID-19? How to Tell the Difference. In Emerson Hospital. Retrieved February 11, 2022, from https://www.emersonhospital.org/articles/allergies-or-covid-19. Overlack, A. (1996). ACE inhibitor-induced cough and bronchospasm. Incidence, mechanisms and management. Drug Saf. 15(1):72-78. DOI:10.2165/00002018-199615010-00006 Rosamond Urgent Care. (2021, October 5). Coughs: Types of coughs. In Rosamond Urgent Care. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from https://rosamondurgentcare.com/patient-services/coughs/ Spader, C. (2020, February 13). Why asthma makes you cough. In Healthgrades. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/asthma/why-asthma-makes-you-cough Sather, R., Foley, M., & Haldeman-Englert, C. (2022). Sputum culture. In University of Rochester Medical Center. Retrieved November 11, 2021, from <https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=sputum_culture> Winchester Hospital. (2022). Bronchospasm - Adult. In Winchester Hospital. Retrieved February 11, 2022 from https://www.winchesterhospital.org/health-library/article?id=874035.