This is a chronic dry cough (>8 weeks) that has partially responded to anti-allergic treatment, which strongly points toward:
• Upper Airway Cough Syndrome (post-nasal drip)
• Possible Allergic Rhinitis
• Mild airway hyperreactivity (cough triggered on deep breath/exertion)
Clues:
• Tickling sensation in throat
• Feeling of mucus stuck (but minimal sputum)
• Worse with running / after food
• Improved with levocetirizine → then worsened after stopping
Next Steps
• Restart anti-allergic therapy:
– Levocetirizine 5 mg at night for 2–3 weeks
• Add:
– Nasal steroid spray (very effective for post-nasal drip)
– Steam inhalation
• If cough persists:
– Consider trial of anti-reflux treatment (like Pantoprazole)
• If still not resolving → Pulmonology/ENT review (to rule out cough variant asthma)
Health Tips
• Avoid dust, cold air, and allergens
• Do not repeatedly try to clear throat (worsens irritation cycle)
• Stay hydrated → thins secretions
• Avoid late-night heavy meals (reflux trigger)
• Warm fluids (honey, ginger) can soothe throat
⚠️ Red flags:
• Weight loss, fever
• Blood in sputum
• Persistent worsening cough
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