What medication should be used for dry cough without phlegm?

Generally, dry cough without phlegm may be caused by improper diet, exposure to allergens, pharyngitis, bronchitis, or cough-variant asthma. After visiting a hospital, patients can be treated with medications such as loratadine tablets, ribavirin capsules, cefixime granules, bromhexine hydrochloride tablets, or budesonide/formoterol inhalation powder, depending on the underlying cause. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Improper Diet

Insufficient water intake or excessive consumption of irritating foods in the diet may lead to dryness and irritation of the throat, triggering a dry cough. It is recommended that patients drink adequate amounts of water and maintain a light diet.

2. Exposure to Allergens

Contact with allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander may cause allergic cough, manifesting as a dry cough without phlegm. It is recommended to use medications such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or ebastine tablets under medical guidance.

3. Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the throat, which may be caused by infections, allergies, or overuse of the voice. It can lead to symptoms such as dryness, soreness, and irritation in the throat, resulting in a persistent dry cough. Patients should take medications such as ribavirin capsules, antiviral oral solution, or azithromycin capsules under medical supervision.

4. Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, possibly caused by viruses, bacteria, or other irritants. This condition can make the airways overly sensitive, leading to frequent coughing, which may sometimes present as a dry cough without phlegm. Patients should use medications such as cefixime granules, ambroxol hydrochloride oral solution, or bromhexine hydrochloride tablets under medical guidance to improve symptoms.

5. Cough-Variant Asthma

This condition is primarily triggered by exposure to allergens or genetic factors within the family, and may cause symptoms such as chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and dry cough. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as bromhexine hydrochloride tablets, salbutamol aerosol, or budesonide/formoterol inhalation powder for treatment.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a positive mindset, avoid spicy, stimulating, and greasy foods, get sufficient rest, and develop healthy lifestyle habits.