
Those with weakened immune systems are most susceptible, such as young children, the elderly, and anyone receiving chemotherapy or organ transplant medications. These viruses spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Viral pneumonia, also called "viral walking pneumonia," is an infection of the lung tissue with influenza ("flu") or other viruses. The best prevention is frequent and thorough handwashing.

Antibiotics only work against bacteria and cannot help against a viral illness. Treatment involves rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers. A persistent sore throat can be a symptom of serious illness such as mononucleosis, measles, chickenpox, or croup.ĭiagnosis is made through physical examination and throat swab. If symptoms do not clear up within 24 hours – especially in children – a medical provider should be seen. Symptoms include throat irritation pain when swallowing or talking red, swollen tonsils fever body aches and cold-like symptoms of cough, sneezing, and runny nose. Those most at risk for viral sore throat are children, smokers, those who work indoors with others, and anyone with a weakened immune system. The illness spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and then someone else inhales the airborne virus or touches a surface where it has landed. This list does not constitute medical advice and may not accurately represent what you have.Ī sore throat is most often caused by the same viruses that cause influenza and the common cold. If you're a heavy smoker or have a family history of lung cancer, visit a physician. Lung cancer: About half of those diagnosed with lung cancer have a persistent dry cough.Chest pain and shortness of breath are more common symptoms, but a sudden dry cough can be a sign. Pulmonary embolism: PE, or blood clots in the lungs, are life-threatening.Lung-specific disorders can result in a dry cough, such as the following. Lung congestion can then cause a dry cough. Heart failure: While not a common cause of dry cough, a weak heart can cause fluid to back up into the lungs.

Sleep apnea: A 2007 report found a link between sleep apnea and a chronic dry cough.This cough is especially likely after exposure to irritants like cold air or ambient smoke. Instead, a chronic and dry cough is the main symptom. Cough-variant asthma does not produce classic symptoms, like shortness of breath or wheezing. Asthma: Not all diagnosed with asthma will experience a dry cough.Various conditions can have a dry cough as a symptom. Habit cough: A habit cough is not a conscious lifestyle choice, but some people experience a persistent dry cough for no apparent reason.Heavier smokers may experience a wet cough that's worse in the morning. Smoking: Smoking irritates the throat, leading to a dry and persistent cough.The following habits can result in a dry cough.


After a few days, the cough could bring up mucus. Bronchitis: The most common symptom of bronchitis is a dry cough.In 25% of cases, a dry cough can persist for four weeks. Upper respiratory infections: More commonly known as a cold, URIs can cause a variety of coughs, including dry coughs.It's likely to experience a dry cough due to the following illnesses. If your cough is persistent, consider other common causes of a dry cough and see a physician. The following details may help you better understand your symptoms.
