What causes throat irritation and allergy cough in adults?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 40-year-old male. My cough is dry, and there is no fever. I think it is likely caused by throat irritation, allergies, viral infection, or acid reflux rather than a bacterial infection.

The severe headache could be due to prolonged coughing and congestion. It started with throat irritation, allergies, viral infection, or acid reflux, and it progressed to a coughing problem. Previously, I took Sinarest LP and Levocetirizine.

Please suggest some medicine.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Since your dry cough started with throat irritation and there is no fever, it is likely caused by:

Allergies (postnasal drip).
Viral infection (like a mild cold).
Acid reflux (GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)) (especially if it worsens at night or after eating).

Suggested medications:

For allergy or postnasal drip, take Levocetirizine 5 mg once at night for allergy relief. Montelukast + Levocetirizine (e.g., Montair LC) can work better if allergies are severe. Saline nasal spray can be used to clear nasal passages. For dry cough and throat irritation, Dextromethorphan syrup (e.g., Benadryl DR, Chericof-D) can be used to suppress dry cough. Steam inhalation relieves throat irritation.

Lozenges (like Strepsils) soothe the throat. For acid reflux (if symptoms match), taking Pantoprazole 40 mg or Omeprazole 20 mg (once before breakfast) reduces acid reflux. Avoid spicy food, coffee, and lying down immediately after meals. For headache and congestion, taking Sinarest LP (if it worked for you before) relieves headaches and nasal congestion.

If a cough lasts more than three weeks, or if you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or wheezing, blood in your cough, or unexplained weight loss. Would you like any specific home remedies or lifestyle changes to help with your symptoms?

I hope this helps.

Let me assist you further.

Thank you, and take care.