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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Sore Throat and Dry Cough?

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The main difference between a sore throat and a dry cough lies in the symptoms they present. Here are the key differences:

  • Sore Throat:
  • Pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat.
  • Often worsens when swallowing or talking.
  • Can be caused by viral infections (cold, flu, mononucleosis, measles, chickenpox, COVID-19), allergies, sinus drainage, laryngitis, irritation from smoke, or acid reflux.
  • Dry Cough:
  • Unproductive cough that does not bring up any phlegm or mucus.
  • Caused by inflammation in the throat and upper airways, creating a tickly sensation.
  • Can be caused by a recent cold or flu, allergies, asthma, or chronic acid reflux.

Both sore throat and dry cough can be treated with over-the-counter medicines and lifestyle or home remedies. They often occur together, such as with a cold or COVID-19 infection. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

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  • What is the Difference Between Sore Throat and Dry Cough?
  • Comparative Table: Sore Throat vs Dry Cough

    • Comparative Table: Sore Throat vs Dry Cough

    Here is a table comparing the differences between a sore throat and a dry cough:

    Symptom Sore Throat Dry Cough
    Definition Pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat, often worsening when swallowing A type of cough that does not bring up any phlegm or mucus
    Causes Common cold, Covid-19, flu, strep throat, tonsilitis, sinus drainage from allergies, laryngitis, irritation from smoke, acid reflux Common cold, Covid-19, flu, allergies, asthma, bronchitis, or other upper respiratory infections
    Associated Symptoms Difficulty swallowing, swollen reddened tonsils, high fever (in case of strep throat) Persistent urge to cough, no secretions produced
    Treatment Gargling with salt water, sucking on throat lozenges, increased fluids and saltwater, avoiding triggers, treating underlying conditions Cough suppressants (dextromethorphan), increased fluids, avoiding triggers, treating underlying conditions

    Both sore throat and dry cough are common symptoms of respiratory infections caused by viruses, bacteria, and fungi. They can also be caused by non-infectious causes such as allergies and environmental irritants.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.