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A dry cough is a persistent, bothersome cough that doesn’t bring up mucus. Instead of feeling heavy or congested, it usually creates a tickling sensation in the throat. It can be set off by viral illnesses, allergies, asthma, exposure to irritants like smoke, or conditions such as acid reflux. It often appears with colds, the flu, COVID‑19, or during recovery from an infection, and it can hang around for several weeks. Many people find it gets worse at night or in dry, dusty air. Most dry coughs clear up on their own, but if it continues for more than 3–4 weeks or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, breathlessness, or unexplained weight loss, it’s best to consult a doctor.