Antitussive drugs for dry cough: types and action

A dry (non-productive) cough is an unpleasant symptom that indicates a disease. 

Antitussives for dry coughs are effective drugs with therapeutic effects on the bronchial tree.

Important! The main therapeutic task is to transform the cough reflex into a productive (wet) form, which promotes the removal of bronchial secretions.

Dry cough: determining the causes

However, it should be remembered that before choosing an antitussive pharmacological agent, it is necessary to clearly determine the reasons that cause a dry cough.

Among the many diagnoses that cause irritation of the cough center, the following cause-and-effect factors can be identified:

• bronchial asthma;
• obstructive condition of the pulmonary system;
• acute or chronic bronchitis;
• sensitivity to external irritants (dust, gas, tobacco smoke);
• painful conditions of the nasopharynx;
• irritant side effect on the drug;
• problems with the functioning of the gastric or intestinal tract.

Only a specialist can determine the clinical symptoms and signs of inflammation of the respiratory system.

How are cough medications classified?

On a note! There are no universal antitussive drugs for dry cough. All pharmacological combinations are aimed at eliminating the cough reflex and differ in the type of effect on the respiratory tract.

Thus, these pharmacological antitussive groups can be classified according to the following parameters:

• drugs with combined antitussive action;
• therapeutic forms of peripheral action;
• centrally acting pharmacological agents;
• expectorants;
• mucolytics.

Expensive and inexpensive antitussive drugs for dry cough can be produced by the manufacturer in various dosage forms and forms:

• in the form of tablets;
• in the form of an elixir or syrup;
• in the form of dry collection of plants;
• in the form of lollipops or chewable pastilles;
• in the form of suppositories (candles).

The principle of action of antitussive drugs

Let's consider the most effective dosage forms for the treatment of dry cough and the mechanism of action of various antitussive drugs on the bronchopulmonary system.

Centrally acting antitussives (non-narcotic)

• Paxeladine is a pharmacological drug that has a softening effect on the respiratory tract of the respiratory system, inhibits irritation of cough receptors and does not have a narcotic effect on the central organ of the nervous system. This antitussive drug for dry cough in adults is recommended for the following conditions: smoker's cough, allergic cough, bronchitis, pneumonia, and so on. A contraindication for use is the body's hypersensitivity to the drug. Before using the drug Paxeladin, you should consult your doctor!
• Sedotussin is an effective antitussive pharmacological agent of central action, suppressing hyperstimulation of the cough center, having a local anesthetic and bronchodilator effect, the active substance of which is pentoxyverine.
• Sinekod is another medicinal antitussive form of central non-narcotic effect on the respiratory tract. Available in the form of tablets and syrup, which is recommended as an expectorant for children. The drug has an anti-inflammatory and moderate bronchodilator effect on the receptors of the cough center, which significantly improves oxygenation and blood spinometry.

Other medicinal antitussive forms of non-narcotic action include: Ledin, Ethylmorphine, Tusuprex, Akodin, Butamirate and so on.

Peripheral antitussives

Dosage forms of this pharmacological group have a suppressive effect on irritated receptors of the cough center, promote the formation of secretions and their removal from the respiratory tract:

• Libexin is an antitussive agent that allows you to block the reflex peripheral areas of the cough center without causing depression of the respiratory tract. Libexin has an anesthetic and bronchodilator effect on the inflamed areas of the bronchopulmonary system within 3-5 hours after administration.
• Bitiodine is an antitussive drug that has a beneficial effect on the upper respiratory tract and lungs during various inflammatory processes in the bronchopulmonary system.
• Prenoxdiazine is a synthetic antitussive agent that has a bronchodilator and anesthetic effect on cough receptors in the respiratory tract. The drug does not depress breathing, is not addictive, and has an anti-inflammatory effect in various chronic diseases of the bronchial tree.

It should be remembered that peripherally acting drugs can cause addiction and drug dependence. Therefore, such pharmacological agents are dispensed in pharmacies with a prescription from the attending physician.

Combined antitussives

On a note! Combined-action antitussives, which stimulate the excretion of bronchial secretions, facilitate breathing and promote dilation of the bronchi, will help suppress attacks of dry cough and turn it into a productive (wet) form.

The most effective pharmacological agents are:

• Doctor Mom is a combined antitussive drug made on the basis of an extract of medicinal plants. The pharmacological agent is available in various dosage forms: syrup, ointment, pastille. Doctor Mom does not contain narcotic or sleeping pills, synthetic substances or alcohol, so it can be recommended as an antitussive drug for children with dry cough.
• Codelac Phyto is a combination cough medicine. Contains only extracts of natural plant components (thyme, licorice root, thermopsis, etc.). The drug is recommended for patients with symptomatic therapy suffering from dry (non-productive) cough with various etiologies of respiratory tract dysfunction. Codelac Fito can be recommended for children from the age of two. In this case, supervision of a pediatrician or local pediatrician is required.
• Cofex is an antitussive and antihistamine drug with combined action. The composition of the pharmacological agent includes chlorpheniramine maleate, which has an antiallergic effect. Therefore, Cofex is an effective medicine for dry coughs of an allergic and/or infectious nature.

Mucolytics

The functional purpose of this type of pharmacological combinatorial agent is concentrated on the dilution and removal of accumulated mucus from the respiratory tract. In other words, transforming a dry, debilitating cough into a wet, that is, productive type. The main mucolytics that suppress the receptors of the cough center in dry cough are:

• Acetylcysteine ​​is a drug that belongs to the category of the most active antitussives. Acetylcysteine ​​has an antimicrobial, antiexudative and antitoxic effect, allowing it to dilute bronchial secretions and promote its active removal from the bronchopulmonary duct.
• Bromhexine is a drug that has an expectorant effect, allowing to increase the secretion of bronchial secretions and reduce sputum viscosity. The drug is very effective for various diseases of the respiratory system, such as pneumoconiosis, chronic and acute inflammation of the trachea, bronchitis and so on.
• Mucaltin is the most common expectorant pharmacological agent recommended for various diseases of the lungs and respiratory tract. In addition to the auxiliary components, the drug contains marshmallow root extract, which spontaneously regenerates the tissues of the bronchopulmonary tract, reducing and blocking inflammatory processes.

Cough remedies for children: review of drugs

A dry cough in a child may be the result of a developing pathology of the upper respiratory tract, such as laryngitis or pharyngitis.

During a medical examination, a pediatric otolaryngologist prescribes special antitussive medications only when attacks of the dry cough reflex become unbearable, exhaust the child, and prevent the baby from sleeping peacefully.

To suppress the cough center, drugs of combined, central and/or peripheral action are used. In addition to the above-described medicinal antitussives, approved for use in children over 2 years of age, there are other effective drugs that can improve the condition of the respiratory system in a child.

Let's review the most effective and popular medicinal antitussives for children:

• Tussin or Tussin-plus is a drug with a mucolytic and expectorant effect that stimulates the secretory cells of the bronchial mucosa thanks to the main component - guaifenesin. Glycerin, which is part of the structural content of the pharmacological agent, allows for a beneficial effect on inflammatory processes in the pharynx, relieving soreness and reducing pain.
• Herbion (syrup) is a unique medicine that has antispasmodic, mucolytic and bronchodilator effects, which contains biologically active additives based on ivy extract. Without causing side effects, this drug is well tolerated by young patients. A contraindication may be an allergic reaction in a child, a problematic condition of the gastrointestinal tract, or some endocrine and dermatological diseases.
• Bronchicum is an excellent drug that has an effective pharmacological effect aimed at treating diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tract, cough and other inflammations of the bronchial tree. Bronchicum is available in various pharmacological forms: in the form of drops, tablets, cough lozenges, syrup, balm, inhalate and even tea. Bronchicum contains the following natural ingredients: primrose and pimpinella roots, grindelia herb, thyme and rosehip flowers.  

Take care of yourself and always be healthy!

Source: https://antirodinka.ru/protivokashlevie-lekarstvennie-preparati-pri-suchom-kashle

Antitussives for dry cough

The cough reflex is one of the body's natural reactions. Under normal conditions, a cough normalizes the patency of the airways, clearing them of foreign objects. However, there are many diseases and pathologies accompanied by a non-productive dry cough without sputum production. The patient's condition worsens, sleep is disturbed, and complications and exacerbations are possible in the future. Therefore, as part of complex therapy, the patient is prescribed antitussive drugs for dry coughs, which relieve discomfort, promote the active formation of mucus and remove it out.

What causes the cough reflex

The occurrence of the symptom is associated with many reasons, but the most common of them are colds and inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.

Under the influence of pathogenic microorganisms, irritation of the mucous membrane occurs, then the lumens of the bronchi become noticeably narrower, and a whistling noise is clearly audible during dry coughing.

Breathing becomes difficult, and deep breaths cause pain.

Timely treatment promotes rapid separation of sputum and the cough goes away within a few days. Lack of therapy leads to serious complications, including the cough becoming chronic.

• The most severe dry cough occurs during the period of influenza. The patient's condition worsens due to high fever, pain and muscle aches. Treatment of influenza is carried out comprehensively, including the use of antitussives.
• A barking, dry cough occurs with whooping cough. The development of this disease leads to more frequent attacks, worsening at night. Sleep is disturbed, the general condition of the patient worsens.
• A prolonged dry cough is accompanied by bronchitis, laryngitis and tracheitis, which are complicated viral infections. The attacks are worse at night or in the morning, and periodically they occur throughout the day.
• One of the common causes is allergic reactions, which intensify with direct contact with allergens. In such cases, it is enough to eliminate the main negative factor, and the dry cough will stop by itself. Constant exposure to irritants leads to a gradual narrowing of the airways and constant coughing. If left untreated, the allergy gradually becomes bronchial asthma or takes the form of obstructive bronchitis.
• In all cases, antitussives are prescribed by the attending physician for severe and frequent dry cough that exhausts the patient. It is gradually transferred to a moist state, after which further treatment is carried out using mucolytic and expectorant drugs.

Types of antitussives

The main classification of cough medications is based on their effect on the patient’s body. Accordingly, they are divided into the following categories:

• Medicines with mucolytic properties. The main goal is to transform a non-productive cough into a wet form with the simultaneous formation of mucus and its removal from the respiratory tract.
• Combined drugs. They have a versatile effect on the affected areas. They stop developing inflammatory processes, while simultaneously stopping spasms in the bronchi. The appearance of abundant sputum contributes to the active removal of pathogenic microbes from the patient’s body.
• Drugs with narcotic effects. Inhibits and suppresses the cough centers of the brain. These drugs should not be taken without a doctor’s prescription, since there is a high probability of the body becoming accustomed to the active substance. Used mainly during whooping cough and pleurisy.
• Non-narcotic medications. They also stop cough reflexes, but their use is not addictive. Prescribed for colds and flu in advanced form.

How to quickly cure a cough

In certain situations, treatment is carried out with medications with local action. They affect the mucous membranes, anesthetize them and, thus, inhibit the cough reflex.

Basically, these are pills that need to be dissolved, after which irritation caused by various reasons is noticeably reduced.

Next, we should consider in more detail the antitussive drugs for dry cough in adults, which are most widespread and most often prescribed by doctors.

Mucolytic agents

They belong to the category of cough medicines with different directions of action, prescribed for chronic and acute bronchitis or pneumonia. Can be used in combination with antibacterial and antiviral medications, immunomodulators and other agents. The influence of mucolytics is directed primarily towards the following areas:

• Reducing inflammation in different areas of the mucous membranes of the respiratory organs.
• Relief of the general condition of the patient with a dry cough.
• Liquefaction of produced sputum.
• Stimulation of the rapid removal of produced mucus from the respiratory tract.

The most effective drugs included in this group are the following drugs:

• Ambroxol. An expectorant in the form of syrup or tablets. Young children are prescribed its analogue, Ambrovix.
• Lazolvan. An effective foreign expectorant. Its substitutes are Ambrosan, Ambrobene, Flavamed.
• Solvin or Bromhexine and Bronchosan. They have a mild antitussive effect and promote active coughing up of secreted sputum.

Of particular note is the mucolytic drug ACC or Acetylcysteine. In addition, it has a noticeable anti-inflammatory effect. It is used at the very first symptoms of a barking dry cough. The drug thins viscous and very thick sputum, facilitating its rapid removal.

ACC almost instantly enters the body through the walls of the gastrointestinal tract. Further through the blood vessels it reaches the inflamed areas and has a healing effect. The medicine is prescribed for bronchitis, sinusitis, tracheitis and laryngitis. It is used at all stages of bronchiectasis.

Each age has its own dosage of the drug, determined by the attending physician:

• Infants from the 10th day of life until the age of two are prescribed 50 mg 3-4 times a day.
• Children aged 2-6 years take 400 mg four times a day.
• From 6 to 14 years old, 600 mg 3 times a day is prescribed. Treatment can last up to 2 months.
• After 14 years, the dose remains within 600 mg, but the number of doses can be increased. On average, treatment lasts 1 week, and for chronic bronchitis, the duration of therapy increases to 6 months.

How to treat cough after whooping cough

The medication is taken after meals. The product is first dissolved in water or other liquid and then taken orally.

Multipurpose combination drugs

Each of these medications contains at least two active components. These include substances with the following effects:

• Antitussives, with central or peripheral action.
• Antihistamine, antibacterial, bronchodilator.
• Mucokinetic, antispasmodic, antipyretic.

One of these medications is Bronholitin, produced in the form of a multicomponent syrup. It has an anti-inflammatory effect, promotes dilation of the bronchi and suppresses the cough center.

The drug is prescribed for bronchitis, whooping cough, pneumonia, asthma and COPD.

Contraindicated in heart failure, high blood pressure, insomnia and pregnant women during the 1st trimester.

Another remedy, Tussin Plus, includes two active components that help increase the cough threshold, reduce the severity of dry cough, and effectively dilute bronchial mucus. Available in syrup form. Contraindicated in cases of severe damage to the central nervous system, wet cough, stomach ulcers and children under 6 years of age.

Narcotic and non-narcotic drugs of central action

All medications included in this list are effective against dry cough, however, its uncontrolled use can lead to drug dependence on analgesics with narcotic properties. Therefore, all products in this group are available only with a doctor’s prescription. The most famous and best medicines will be the following:

• Codeine. The most common narcotic analgesic with an antitussive effect. At the same time, it soothes and relieves pain in affected areas of the respiratory tract. The action of the active substance blocks dry cough for an average of 5-6 hours. The drug is prescribed in exceptional cases, for a very short time, because in addition to addiction, it has a depressing effect on the respiratory center, thereby reducing tidal volume.
• Glaucine. Refers to herbal medicines. It is not a drug; it selectively inhibits active neurons of the cough center. Does not lead to addiction and other side effects characteristic of Codeine.
• Tusuprex. It is a non-narcotic drug and has an antitussive and slight mucolytic effect. It has contraindications in the presence of bronchitis, bronchial asthma, bronchiectasis, and narrowing of the bronchial lumen.

Medicines with local peripheral action

The peripheral effect of these medications is to block individual receptors and nerve endings located in the trachea and bronchi. The most well-known and effective drugs are the following:

• Libexin. In addition to stopping the cough reflex, it has a local anesthetic effect. Dilates the bronchi, suppresses receptors that directly cause dry cough. During treatment, respiratory activity decreases slightly without respiratory depression in general. The medicine is used in the treatment of bronchitis as part of complex therapy, providing an anti-inflammatory effect. Taking the drug does not affect the central nervous system in any way. The dosage is prescribed by the doctor, depending on the age and weight of the patient.
• Bithiodine. It affects the receptors of the mucous membranes located in the respiratory tract and the center located in the medulla oblongata. In some cases, the drug causes allergic reactions and constipation.

How to treat tracheid cough

Medicines for dry cough prescribed for children

For children, such drugs are prescribed only after a comprehensive examination and diagnosis, when the exact cause of the disease has been established. The fact is that some diseases, for example, colds or flu, require complex treatment, compliance with bed rest, drinking regime and other requirements established by the doctor.

The choice of a specific medicine for dry cough is made taking into account the age characteristics and condition of the child. Most often, as part of complex therapy, the following drugs against dry cough are used:

• Stoptussin. Available in drops and tablets. Drops are prescribed to the youngest patients, starting from 6 months. Children over 12 years old can take tablets. The medicine is taken after meals, the drops are diluted with water, juice or tea before use. The intervals between medication doses should be at least 6 hours. The drug is easily tolerated, although side effects such as headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and drowsiness are observed.
• Sinekod. It has a quick effect on the cough center, dilates the bronchi and makes breathing easier. Children from 2 months to 3 years are prescribed drops, and after the age of three - syrup. The medicine is taken before meals, the dosage is determined by the doctor, the course duration is 7 days.
• Glycodin. Multicomponent syrup with mucolytic and antitussive effect. Prescribed to children from 4 years of age. Under the influence of the active substance, the excited cough center is inhibited. In addition, the medicine has an expectorant and antispasmodic effect. Contraindicated in the presence of bronchial asthma and fructose intolerance.
• Glauvent. Available in syrup form, it helps quickly relieve coughs and ease breathing. The active component additionally provides an analgesic and antispasmodic effect. Used to treat children over 4 years of age, consumed after meals. The medicine has no obvious side effects, there is no dependence or addiction.

How to treat dry cough in pregnant women

Viruses and colds spare no one, including pregnant women. A feature of treatment during this period is the careful use or complete prohibition of most traditional drugs. Under no circumstances should you self-medicate, otherwise the active substances may cross the placenta and harm the developing fetus.

Therefore, doctors recommend using drugs with destromethorphan, which does not cause negative effects on the pregnant woman’s body. This substance is contained in Tussin Plus, Fervex, Akodin, Padevix and other medicines. In any case, treatment should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.

Source: https://medic-z.ru/protivokashlevye-preparaty-pri-suhom-kashle

Treatment of dry cough - features of antitussive drugs

A dry cough is called unproductive because it does not remove mucus and does not make breathing easier. On the contrary, during attacks a person feels a deterioration in health: body temperature rises, sore throat and sore throat increase. To treat this condition, doctors prescribe antitussives with central, peripheral or combined action.

Indications for taking antitussive drugs

Some diseases of the respiratory system (whooping cough, parawhooping cough, laryngitis, tracheitis) are characterized by prolonged attacks of dry cough. Sputum in the bronchi is not produced due to the fact that irritation occurs in other organs - the cough center of the brain, receptors of the pharynx and trachea. Pharmacy antitussives help reduce the intensity of attacks.

Antitussive drugs are prescribed to suppress coughing attacks in the postoperative period.

To identify diseases of the lower respiratory tract, the patient is often prescribed instrumental diagnostic procedures (bronchoscopy, endoscopy of the throat). To perform them, it is necessary to temporarily stop attacks of dry cough. Antitussive drugs help cope with this problem.

Centrally acting antitussives

Drugs of this type suppress the function of cough receptors in the human brain. They not only stop dry coughs, but also have a mild sedative and analgesic effect.

"Codeine". The drug has a pronounced antitussive and analgesic effect. It requires calculation of the exact dosage, since self-medication with this narcotic drug causes addiction, as well as lethargy and respiratory depression.

"Sinecode". The main component of this medicine is not a narcotic substance, which allows it to be prescribed to children and weakened patients. The drug effectively suppresses attacks of dry cough and has minimal side effects (allergic reaction, dry airways).

Peripheral drugs

Medicines of this type interact with cough receptors located in the tracheobronchial tree. The components of the product “freeze” the nerve endings, which weakens attacks of dry cough. The maximum duration of a course of such therapy is 10 days, after which it is necessary to change the treatment goal, that is, transform the symptom into a productive form.

"Libexin." The medicine is released in the form of tablets. It is prescribed to adults and children over 12 years of age. The drug has a local anesthetic effect and expands the lumen of the bronchi to facilitate breathing during a dry cough.

"Bitiodine." The tablets suppress the sensitivity of receptors in the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract. They are not addictive and rarely cause an allergic reaction. The only side effect of taking them regularly is constipation. When it appears, it is necessary to replace the medicine with a high-quality analogue.

Combination drugs

A dry cough is a common symptom of colds. When they are detected, doctors prescribe combination drugs that contain components to suppress attacks. In addition, such drugs have antipyretic, antispasmodic, and mucolytic effects.

"Bronholitin." The drug has a pronounced antitussive, antimicrobial, sedative, and vasodilator effect. It is convenient for adults to take it in tablet form, and for children in the form of sweet syrup. The medicine can be combined with antibiotics, antiviral and anti-inflammatory drugs.

"Stoptussin." The drug contains two active ingredients. Butamirate dihydrogen citrate suppresses the sensitivity of respiratory receptors. Guaifenesin has a mucolytic effect. As a result, liquid sputum is formed in the bronchi, which absorbs toxins and is eliminated from the body during coughing.

Source: https://stop-kashel.ru/lechenie-suhogo-kashlya-osobennosti-protivokashlevyh-preparatov/

Antitussives for dry cough - treatments

A wide range of medications are used to treat cough, including expectorants for dry coughs, which differ depending on the individual characteristics of the patient and the nature of the cough. Dry cough is considered the most difficult to treat.

Causes

Often, a dry cough in adults and children appears at the very beginning of the development of a cold, viral or infectious disease. A characteristic feature of this process is the almost complete absence of sputum and severe coughing attacks that interfere with sleep and daily activities.

The main factors that can cause a dry cough. the following are considered:

• The initial stage of viral, infectious and colds, which are characterized by damage to the respiratory tract;
• Allergic reaction to dust, plant blooms or chemical toxins; Bronchial spasm;
• Taking certain medications that reduce high blood pressure;
• Reflexes of the respiratory organs. Attacks of a dry cough may occur when suddenly going out into cold air or inhaling strong odors (chemicals, perfume or cigarette smoke);
• The best expectorants for dry cough;

The best expectorants for dry cough

To quickly get rid of a dry cough and transfer it to the productive stage (with sputum production), you should definitely consult a doctor, who will prescribe the correct medications to combat the disease.

To treat dry and painful cough, which is accompanied by frequent attacks, antitussive drugs of complex action are used. If the patient begins to produce even a small amount of sputum, expectorants are used for dry cough. They promote rapid removal of mucus from the bronchi.

At the pharmacy you can find many products that will help you quickly get rid of a dry cough. We present the most effective of them, which have collected many positive user reviews. Some of these drugs can be used not only to treat adults, but also children.

1. Gerbion syrup based on plantain has all the necessary properties to combat dry cough. Thanks to the plant origin of the main components, it can be used even by people prone to allergies. However, it is not recommended to use the drug for patients with diabetes.
2. Sinecode in the form of tablets, syrup or drops is considered the most universal remedy for combating dry cough due to its wide spectrum of action. The drug not only suppresses the cough center, but also relieves inflammation and stimulates the functioning of the respiratory system.
3. Stoptussin is available in the form of tablets and drops. It is used to treat dry cough in adults and children over one year of age. The components included in the drug thin the mucus and relieve inflammation of the mucous membrane.
4. Codelac Phyto syrup is a fairly effective remedy that helps to quickly get rid of a dry cough. However, this remedy is not recommended for children under two years of age, pregnant women and people suffering from bronchial asthma.

Home remedies for dry cough

In addition to taking special expectorant medications, which help to quickly get rid of attacks of dry cough, the patient can take some measures that will help soften the attacks at home and help remove phlegm.

• The patient is advised to drink as much warm liquid as possible to help the mucus dissolve faster.
• The air in the patient's room must be constantly humidified and the room must be kept free of dust.
• Use traditional methods of struggle. For example, drink heated salt mineral water (Borjomi) or a mixture of butter, honey and baking soda (the components are mixed in equal proportions, slightly heated and drunk in small sips).
• Carrying out inhalations based on decoctions of medicinal plants (chamomile, St. John's wort, sage, plantain, linden blossom).

Important: treatment of dry cough should be carried out as quickly as possible so that sputum does not stagnate in the bronchi and cause complications.

Mechanism of dry and wet cough

A cough can be divided into dry and wet, which will affect the prescription of an antitussive for a child.

Source: https://sopli.net/protivokaslevye-preparaty/

Antitussive drugs - what to take for dry cough in adults, list of drugs, pharmacotherapy, what tablets and syrups are used

513 10/02/2019 7 min.

Coughing is an unconditioned protective reflex that helps the body get rid of irritants from the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract. There are dry and wet coughs. With a wet cough, a person clears his throat and gets at least temporary relief. A dry cough is much more painful, often causing pain in the lungs and bronchi.

Diagnostics

To correctly diagnose the disease that caused the cough, it is necessary to know the duration, timbre, time of exacerbation, and strength of the cough. Coughs are classified according to duration:

• Acute – up to 2 weeks;
• Protracted cough – up to 2 months;
• Chronic – over 2 months.

A dry cough indicates that the body is unable to cope with the threat that has arisen and needs help. Often a lingering and chronic dry cough is a sign of serious illnesses that require immediate treatment.

Causes

Most often, a dry cough is a manifestation of inflammatory processes in the upper respiratory tract, or, more simply, colds. If the disease is treated correctly and in a timely manner, then a cold dry cough turns into a wet (productive) one, which helps the body get rid of pathogenic microorganisms.

Causes of cough

However, with a prolonged and chronic cough, the cause may be completely different:

• Allergic reactions;
• Polluted and excessively dry air;
• Secondary viral infection;
• Foreign body aspiration;
• Mental disorders.

A dry cough also remains during the treatment of colds in cases where the body cannot cope even with the help of medications. In other words, the immune system is greatly weakened, and treatment should be carried out using stronger drugs including immunomodulators.

Possible diseases

All diseases, the symptom of which is a dry cough, are divided into 2 large groups: those resulting from inflammatory processes in the respiratory organs and those not related to the respiratory system.

The first includes:

1. Laryngitis, pharyngitis, tracheitis. In these diseases, the mucous membrane of the larynx, pharynx, and trachea is involved in the inflammatory process. A painful barking cough debilitates the patient, worsening at night.
2. Whooping cough, measles. In most cases, the disease is childhood, but in adults it is severe. A hysterical dry cough sometimes causes vomiting. Measles is characterized by red rashes on the skin and whitish ones on the mucous membranes.
3. Diseases of ENT organs. Postnasal drip (mucus on the back of the throat), characteristic of sinusitis, sinusitis, and rhinitis, causes a characteristic dry cough at night that does not respond to conventional treatment.
4. Atypical pneumonia and bronchitis. A prolonged dry cough can occur with a relapse of an already cured disease, proceeding sluggishly and presenting symptoms from time to time.
5. Tuberculosis. Despite the complete cure of tuberculosis with modern drugs, it remains a very dangerous disease. And mild coughing can develop into acute attacks that cannot be easily cured. At the same time, Koch's bacillus easily mutates and, in conjunction with some chronic diseases, can cause death.

Only timely diagnosis and correctly prescribed treatment can relieve the symptoms of a serious illness and help defeat the disease.

The occurrence of a dry cough is often caused by other reasons that are completely unrelated to colds:

1. Oncology of the respiratory organs. Pathological changes in the respiratory organs often cause a dry, exhausting cough.
2. Bronchial asthma. Attacks of dry, painful cough are caused by disturbances not only in the functioning of the bronchi, but are directly related to the immune system, nerves and allergic reaction.
3. Allergy. An allergic dry cough manifests itself in most people as a reaction to an irritant (pollen, food, smell, fur, medications). Allergic reactions affect most children and many adults today. In addition to coughing, allergy symptoms include sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. The occurrence of a dry cough can be caused by inhalation of various toxins over a long period of time at home (washing powders, new furniture, painting during renovation, hygiene products) and at work (coal mining industry, chemical plants, construction).
4. Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. A dry cough can be caused by an esophageal-tracheal fistula or diverticula of the esophagus. In this case, there is no temperature, and a cough occurs after eating.
5. Diseases of the heart and vascular system. If the normal circulation of blood in the lungs is disrupted, a so-called “heart cough” may occur. It is a symptom of coronary pulmonary disease.

A simple cough if ignored can cause a serious illness, sometimes untreatable.

Drug treatment

When choosing a medicine, you should first of all be guided by the diagnosis. In any case, to prescribe the drug, a doctor’s consultation is necessary, since the list of antitussive drugs is not limited to two or three names.

How to choose the right treatment for dry cough

Pills

Depending on the area of ​​influence, all cough tablets are divided:

1. Medicines that affect the cough center in the brain: with and without a narcotic component;
2. Peripheral drugs. They act on nerve receptors in the respiratory tract;
3. Combined action.

The most effective antitussive tablets are:

• "Ambrobene". The drug has a mucolytic and expectorant effect, is prescribed for difficulties with sputum discharge, and has an effect within 30 minutes. after reception. Side effects may occur: nausea, weakness, headache.
• "Stoptussin." Combined-action tablets relieve bronchospasm while simultaneously acting on cough receptors. There is a high probability of side effects; it is contraindicated for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under 12 years of age.
• "Codelac". The drug suppresses the cough center of the brain. Contraindicated in case of respiratory failure and pregnancy; allergic reactions are possible.
• "Libexin." Significantly reduces the sensitivity of cough receptors, while simultaneously reducing bronchospasm and affecting the cough center in the brain. Used for non-productive coughs of all types; use with caution during pregnancy and lactation.
• "Lazolvan." The drug is similar in effect to Ambrobene. There is a risk of side effects, especially allergic reactions. In some cases, use in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy is allowed.

When choosing a medicine, it is necessary to take into account the cause of the cough and the risk of possible side effects.

Inhalers and syrups

To relieve attacks of dry cough, inhalers (nebulizers) and syrups are used.

During inhalation, the patient inhales the vapor of the drug through a face mask for 15 minutes. After inhalation, as after any warming procedure, you need to stay in the room for some time (up to 30 minutes). For inhalation, depending on the disease, the following drugs are used:

• Antitussives (Tussemag, lidocaine solution 2%);
• Anti-inflammatory (Tonsilong N, Rotokan);
• Antiallergic and hormonal (Pulmicort, Dexamethasone, Cromohexal);
• Bronchodilators (Atrovent, Berodual, Salgim, Ventolin);
• Antimicrobials and antibiotics (Gentamicin, Miramistin, Dioxidin, Furacilin).

Dry cough is relieved by treatment with syrups that have emollient, anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects:

• Doctor Mom;
• Bronchicum;
• Bronholitin;
• Stoptussin;
• Sinecode;
• Codelac Phyto.

Most syrups contain herbal components, which make it possible to use drugs for treating children due to their mild effect.

Injections

To eliminate the cause of a dry cough, different medications can be used, depending on the nature of the disease. If a cough occurs against the background of a severe inflammatory process, the use of antibiotics in the form of injections becomes mandatory. The most effective are antibiotics of 4 groups:

• Penicillins (Augmentin, Amoxiclav, Ampiox, Flemoxin). Drugs in this group are the most common; they suppress several types of bacteria at once;
• Cephalosporins (Cefazolin, Cefaclor, Cephalexin). Drugs with a stronger effect are used for relapses of diseases;
• Marcolides (Erythromycin, Roxithromycin, Josamycin). Antibiotics of this group destroy bacterial protein synthesis and are used to treat adults and children;
• Fluoroquinolones (Ofloxacin, Pefloxacin, Moxifloxacin). The drugs are prescribed in cases where the use of other antibiotics has not given the desired effect.

Before using an antibiotic, you should carefully weigh the pros and cons of using the drug and consult your doctor.

Sometimes, with the combined use of drug and traditional therapy, a complete cure without antibiotics becomes possible.

ethnoscience

Traditional medicine that combats dry cough includes inhalations, heating, decoctions and tinctures. There are a number of products that relieve spasms during attacks, medicinal plants with a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect:

• Onion or black radish juice, diluted in half with honey, take 1 tsp. 3 times a day and at night during attacks;
• Beat 2 egg yolks with sugar, add 1 tbsp. l. rum and take in the morning on an empty stomach;
• A mixture of 2 yolks, 2 tsp. honey, 2 tbsp. l. butter and 1 tsp. use wheat flour throughout the day, taking 1 tsp. ;
• It is very useful for dry cough to drink natural birch sap, especially fresh;
• Internal rendered lard - in milk or used as a compress - relieves spasms well;
• Squeeze the juice of the boiled lemon into a glass, add 2 tbsp. l. purified glycerin, add honey to the top. Stir and eat a day, taking 1 tsp. ;
• Inhalations with plants that have an anti-inflammatory effect and are rich in essential oils will be useful: eucalyptus, cloves, sage.
• Instead of coffee, drink ground grains of oats, barley and rye, adding a little bitter almonds and baked milk.
• To alleviate a dry cough, you need to drink as much liquid as possible, in particular alkaline mineral water.

When using traditional medicine for treatment, it is necessary to take into account the possibility of side effects and the nature of the dry cough.

General recommendations and tips for choosing

The main thing when treating a dry cough is to correctly identify its nature. In this case, consultation with a specialist and, if necessary, a series of examinations are required. If the cause is not related to a disease of the respiratory organs, antitussive drugs are prescribed that act on the cough center and peripheral nerve endings. In other cases, the disease that caused the dry cough is treated.

The most effective non-narcotic drug, according to S. Sviridova, an employee of the Research Institute of Phthisiopulmonology, is a medicine based on citrate butamirate. The drug has almost no side effects and is approved for use in children from 2 months.

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How to quickly cure a runny nose at home: //drlor.online/diagnostika-lechenie/nasmork/lechenie-bystro-iv-domashnix-usloviyax.html

Video

conclusions

Dry cough is the result of adverse effects (external or internal) on the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract. In any case, it requires close attention, especially if it exists for a long time.

Before you prescribe medication for yourself, think about the fact that the cause of a dry cough may be completely different from the one you diagnosed. And only a doctor, having prescribed a series of studies, will be able to determine the nature of the disease with a high degree of reliability.

Source: https://drLOR.online/diagnostika-lechenie/kashel/chto-nado-znat-o-suxom-metodax-ego-lecheniya.html