When it comes to cold and flu symptoms, there are two main types of coughs—chesty coughs and dry coughs. Learn the differences between the two and how to treat them.
Dry Coughs
A dry cough is by definition nonproductive. It is caused by increased sensitivity of airway nerves, and is often the result of irritation (cough = more cough).How to Treat Dry Coughs:
Treat dry coughs with suppressants, such as dextromethorphan, to reduce frequency/intensity.
Chesty Coughs
A chesty cough might be productive or nonproductive. It is caused by excess mucus in the airway, or stimulation of airway nerves to induce feelings of pain, pressure, and congestion, and is often accompanied by irritation-induced cough.How to Treat Chesty Coughs:
Treat chesty coughs with expectorants to speed mucus removal and/or hydrate the airway to sooth airway nerves. Chesty coughs might or might not be accompanied by expectoration of excess mucus. In general, with uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections, there is minimal evidence of excess mucus. The suggested treatment for this condition is a hydrating agent such as guaifenesin.
