What causes a persistent cough without phlegm, and how is it treated?

Generally, a prolonged cough without phlegm may be caused by conditions such as cough-variant asthma, chronic pharyngitis, or pulmonary tuberculosis. Medications can be used under medical guidance for treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Cough-Variant Asthma

If an individual is allergic to medications, environmental factors, diet, or other triggers, exposure to allergens may lead to cellular damage or physiological dysfunction, resulting in this symptom. Avoiding allergens can help relieve symptoms. Additionally, antihistamine medications can be taken as directed by a physician, such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets or loratadine tablets.

2. Chronic Pharyngitis

This condition is primarily caused by chronic inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa, submucosal tissues, and lymphoid tissue. It may present with a persistent dry cough and accompanying discomfort such as a foreign body sensation or dryness in the throat. Maintaining good oral and oropharyngeal hygiene in daily life is important. Treatment may include medications like watermelon frost lozenges or yin-huang lozenges, used according to medical advice.

3. Pulmonary Tuberculosis

After infection of the lungs by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, this chronic infectious disease may develop, presenting with a persistent dry cough along with systemic symptoms such as fatigue, night sweats, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as rifampicin tablets and isoniazid tablets. If drug therapy proves ineffective, chemotherapy may be considered to improve outcomes.

In addition to the above, lung cancer could also be a possible cause. It is recommended to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment accordingly.