Why Do I Have Dry Cough That Sometimes Causes A Tingling Sensation In My Back, Chest Or Arms?

Posted on Thu, 2 Aug 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 2 Aug 2018 Answered on

Wed, 9 Mar 2022 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a dry cough and when i cough sometimes i get a tingling in my back my chest and/or my arms. Tickle but very little to no mucus.

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (48 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Possibility of simple dry cough due to URTI is more likely.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

By your history and description, possibility of simple viral upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) related dry cough is more likely.
Coughing causes exertion to back and chest muscles.
So slight tickle or pain is common.
Drink plenty of fluids orally.
Do warm water gargles and steam inhalation 4-5 times a day.
Take levocetrizine and paracetamol combination twice daily after some food for 2-3 days.
I want to know few more things about you to guide you further.
Please let me know
1. Do you smoke?
2. Do you have any breathing difficulty?
3. Do you have diabetes or hypertension?
Please reply me answers of above asked questions, so that I can guide you better. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy

Follow up: Dr. Drkaushal85 (7 hours later)

1. I do not smoke and never have. 2. I do not have breathing difficulty. 3. I do not have hypertension or diabetes. i am a bit over weight, have some stents, high blood pressure and must keep my cholesterol down, though I am within my proper levels for LDL.

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (18 hours later)

Brief Answer:
No need to worry much.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Since you are not a smoker and not having breathing difficulty ,no need to worry much.
This is mostly viral URTI related cough and pain.
This will go away in 1 week.
If not improving after 1 week, consult doctor for the same.

Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj