What medication should I take for a dry cough?

     Under normal circumstances, the throat refers to the pharynx. Dry cough in the throat may be caused by dry air, dietary irritation, common cold, acute pharyngitis, cough variant asthma, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical advice and use medications such as Compound Paracetamol and Amantadine Tablets, Ganmaoling Granules, Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, Domiphen Bromide Lozenges, and Montelukast Sodium Tablets under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

     1. Dry Air

     When the humidity level in the surrounding air is low, moisture from the respiratory mucosa evaporates rapidly, causing the mucosa to become dry and fragile. This dry condition can stimulate nerve endings within the respiratory tract, triggering a cough reflex. Additionally, because mucosal secretory function is affected, mucus secretion decreases, leading to a dry cough. Medication is generally not required for treatment. A humidifier can be used indoors, and drinking more warm water can help keep the respiratory tract moist.

     2. Dietary Irritation

     Consuming excessive spicy or hot foods can directly irritate the throat mucosa, disrupting its normal physiological function and causing discomfort in the throat. To relieve this irritation, the throat may trigger a dry cough reflex. This condition generally does not require medication. In daily diet, one should try to reduce intake of spicy foods such as chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, as well as excessively hot foods; instead, consume more bland foods rich in vitamins.

     3. Common Cold

     A common cold is usually caused by a viral infection, such as rhinovirus or coronavirus. After invading the upper respiratory tract, the virus multiplies extensively in the throat and surrounding tissues, causing an inflammatory response that stimulates nerve endings in the throat, potentially leading to a dry cough. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as runny nose and headache. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Compound Paracetamol and Amantadine Tablets, Ganmaoling Granules, and Vitamin C Yinqiao Tablets can be used for treatment.

     4. Acute Pharyngitis

     Acute pharyngitis is mainly caused by viral infections, although a few cases are caused by bacterial infections. Viruses or bacteria invade the pharyngeal mucosa and surrounding lymphatic tissues, causing inflammation. This inflammation stimulates throat nerves, resulting in a dry cough. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as discomfort when swallowing and dry throat. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, Domiphen Bromide Lozenges, and Yinhuang Lozenges.

     5. Cough Variant Asthma

     Cough variant asthma is primarily caused by the combined effects of genetic and environmental factors. Patients have chronic airway inflammation and increased airway reactivity. When exposed to triggers such as cold air, pollen, or irritating gases, airway smooth muscles contract, and secretions increase, stimulating cough receptors in the airways and causing a dry cough as the main symptom. It may also be accompanied by chest tightness and rapid breathing. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Montelukast Sodium Tablets, Aminophylline Tablets, and Ketotifen Fumarate Tablets can be used for treatment.

     In daily life, it is important to maintain clean indoor air and reduce dust and pollutants; engage in regular exercise to strengthen resistance of the respiratory tract; and pay attention to seasonal changes, dressing appropriately to prevent respiratory infections.