[40M] With persistent dry cough post-influenza

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possible explanations for your symptoms:

• Chronic bronchitis: This is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that causes a long-term cough with mucus. However, you mentioned that your cough is dry and there's no phlegm, which makes this less likely.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to help open the airways and improve lung function, such as bronchodilators and steroids.

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This is a digestive disorder that occurs when acidic stomach juices, or food and fluids back up from the stomach into the esophagus. GERD is a more severe form of reflux that can also cause a dry cough, especially after eating or drinking.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In some cases, prescription medications or surgery might be needed.

• Postnasal drip: This is when excess mucus from your nose drips down the back of your throat. This can cause a cough, often worse at night. However, this usually comes with other symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, which you didn't mention.

  • Treatment usually involves addressing the cause of the excess mucus, such as allergies or sinusitis.

• Asthma: This is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. You mentioned that your cough improves with steroids, which are often used to treat asthma.

  • Treatment typically involves long-term asthma control medications, inhaled corticosteroids, and rescue inhalers for quick symptom relief.

What you can do

1. Keep a diary of when your cough gets worse. This can help identify any triggers or patterns, such as certain foods or times of day.
2. Try over-the-counter cough suppressants to help control your cough.
3. Stay hydrated and use a humidifier to help soothe your throat and reduce coughing.
4. Avoid exposure to irritants such as smoke and dust.

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What you should look out for

If your cough becomes severe, you start coughing up blood, or you experience other symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, or chest pain, seek medical attention immediately.