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A dry cough can be a sign of a serious medical condition, but Dr Sharron Orrange of the USC/Keck School of Medicine explains that the most common causes of a persistent cough are allergies, reactive airway disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease. All of these conditions can be safely treated both at home and in a doctor’s office.

Allergy Cough

Besides a dry cough, the Mayo Clinic states that allergies may cause wheezing and itching. This is the result of the immune system mistaking a substance as harmful. To treat an allergy related cough, it is important to avoid allergy triggers such as pet dander, pollen and nuts.

In addition, over-the counter and prescription allergy medications like antihistamines, cromolyn sodium and corticosteroids can help relieve a cough. If other methods do not provide relief, a doctor may suggest immunotherapy or allergy shots. This option requires multiple injections over several years.

GERD Cough

To remedy dry coughs associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the U.S. National Library of Medicine recommends avoiding foods and beverages that commonly trigger it. These may include chocolate, tomato sauces, citrus fruits, caffeine, alcohol and fatty foods. In addition, certain prescription medications can inhibit acid. Medications like omeprazole, ranitidine, rabeprazole and metoclopramide can all help control a cough caused by acid reflux. For severe GERD that does not respond to treatment or lifestyle alteration, surgery to correct the esophagus muscles may be an option.

Asthma Cough

When a cough is related to asthma, the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute notes that it is usually worse during early morning hours or at night. It may also be accompanied by breath shortness and tightening of the chest. Although asthma cannot be cured, its symptoms can be controlled. Avoid factors that can make your asthma worse, such as smoke or pollution.

Depending upon the severity, a doctor may prescribe a long-term control medication to prevent inflammation of the airways or a quick acting medication to remedy symptoms as they occur. If asthma symptoms, such as a cough, are under control for several consecutive months, a doctor may be able to reduce your medication.