Dry, hacking coughs can be caused by a number of reasons, including illness, allergies, smoking, or even just dry air at home or at work. They can be persistent and difficult to get rid of permanently. There are many ways to treat dry coughs, however, and many are quite simple and involve items found around the home. The first and most important dry cough remedy is to quit smoking. Smoking is one of the leading causes of a persistent dry cough, and it can easily lead to other illnesses as well.
Another dry cough remedy that can be effective is to stay hydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dryness. Tea with honey and lemon can also be an effective treatment for dry coughs, and can soothe a sore throat as well. Some people choose to add a bit of turmeric to the tea as well. In addition, sucking on a hard candy or cough drop can work in a pinch, such as during an important business meeting or phone call.
Because dry air is a leading cause of coughing and dryness, an excellent dry cough remedy is to add a humidifier to the home. These come in all different sizes, and one may be used for the entire home or just a bedroom. Even putting a humidifier in a bedroom at night can make a big difference.
Steam also works as an excellent dry cough remedy. Taking a hot bath or shower and trying to breathe deeply, or even standing over a small pot of steaming hot water, can moisten the lungs and throat and prevent coughing. Be especially careful with boiling water; it can easily cause severe burns. Practicing some deep breathing exercises may also help prevent the urge to cough, such as trying to breathe in and out slowly through the nose, and expanding the diaphragm.
Some people find success by chewing a small bit of ginger or a peppermint candy to prevent coughing. Hot milk and honey is often found to provide dry cough relief, as well as a glass of water with a few teaspoons of apple cider vinegar mixed in. Over-the-counter cough suppressants may not work very well against dry coughs, but if the cough remains persistent or gets worse, it may be necessary to visit a doctor. He or she may be able to prescribe medication, particularly for those who suffer from a dry cough due to allergies, or underlying illnesses.
