Common Ailments

DRY COUGH

Coughs tend to fall into one of two categories, either 'dry' (non-productive) or 'chesty' (productive).

In dry coughs a patient will cough without expelling any mucus or phlegm.

Very often patients experience an uncomfortable tickling in the throat which stimulates the actual coughing attacks.

What Causes a Dry Cough?

Most coughs are described as acute meaning that they appear suddenly and normally do not last longer than 2-3 weeks.

They are often due to a cold, flu or sinus infection. Dry coughs often occur at the end of these infections or after a person has been exposed to an irritant of some kind such as smoke, dust or chemical fumes.

Smoking cigarettes, allergies and asthma are also common causes of coughs.

In some cases a cough can be a symptom of a more serious condition. These include:-

• Lung infections like pneumonia or acute bronchitis (may start suddenly but then linger on)
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysema or chronic bronchitis)
• Sinusitis

It is therefore very important that you visit your GP if you have a cough that persists for longer than 2-3 weeks. Do not panic though - for most people a cough will pass quickly and can be treated by a number of products available at your local Numark Pharmacy.

Remedies Available

Many of these contain a cough suppressant which reduces the cough reflex. Some common cough suppressants include codeine, pholcodine and dextromethorphan. These will be found in many cough remedies that combine a number of active ingredients to alleviate different symptoms.

Glycerin, honey and lemon are also considered cough suppressants. These work by coating the throat, reducing irritation and the tickling sensation common to dry coughs.

Some cough remedies also contain substances known as sympathomimetics such as pseudoephedrine. These relax the airway and have decongestant effects, and are useful if you have a blocked nose as well as a cough.

In some cases it may be suggested that you use an antihistamine. Antihistamines can also reduce the cough reflex. Your Pharmacist will help you identify the particular remedy that will work best on your symptoms so do ask for his or her advice when selecting a cough remedy.

Be aware that in some cases, the ingredients in cough remedies can interact with prescription medicines so you should always mention any medicine you are taking to your local Numark pharmacist when purchasing a remedy.

You should also never use a cough remedy for longer than two weeks and if you have a cough that persists you should visit your GP.

For further advice on dry coughs consult your Numark Pharmacist.