What is an Allergic Cough?
An allergic cough is a type of chronic, irritating, dry cough caused by an allergic response to something in the environment. It is more common in people who have asthma or environmental allergies. People with an allergic cough may experience wheezing, chest tightness, and a shortness of breath.
Symptoms of an Allergic Cough
The main symptom of an allergic cough is an irritating and uncontrollable dry cough. Other symptoms may include:
- wheezing
- chest tightness
- shortness of breath
- sore throat
- a runny or stuffy nose
- itchy eyes
- sneezing
Causes of an Allergic Cough
An allergic cough is caused by allergens in the environment. These allergens can be anything from pollen to dust, smoke, animal dander, and irritants in the air. People with allergies to these substances are more likely to have an allergic cough.
Diagnosis of an Allergic Cough
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also do a physical examination and request blood tests. They may also request a skin prick test or a chest X-ray to help determine the cause of your cough and determine if it is an allergic reaction.
Treatment of an Allergic Cough
The best way to treat an allergic cough is to avoid the allergens that are causing the reaction. This might include cleaning your home regularly to reduce dust and pet dander, wearing an air mask when outdoors, and taking antihistamines or prescription medications to reduce inflammation and ease symptoms. In some cases, an inhaler may be necessary to provide quick relief from symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend immunotherapy or allergy shots to desensitize you to the allergen causing your allergic cough.