The reason why you have a cough is due to irritants in your throat and airway. This is common, but could but could be very aggravating if it lasts for a long time. To get rid of a dry cough or to get rid of a wet cough will surely bring you some comfort and will save you from weird stares in social situations.
A cough can be either dry or wet. A wet cough normally produces fluid or, as most people call it, phlegm. It can appear yellowish or greenish, which is a sign of a bacterial infection. A dry cough usually does not produce this kind of fluid. It can be very irritating to the throat though and could be a sign of a viral infection.