Q: I get cough and subsequent throat pain when I am travelling in a bus or train. I get the same when I talk for more than 5-10 minutes continuously. I am much better at home and do not get such coughs regularly. What are the possible causes for the same and what should I do to control the cough?

A:This is probably due either to dryness or an allergic/irritation phenomenon. I would suggest you drink plenty of water (and take sips of water when talking for any length of time) and consider anti-allergic medication. If you have any symptoms of stomach reflux (such as acidity, sour burps etc), this may also contribute to your symptoms in which case you may need anti-reflux medication.