What causes dry cough and itchy throat?
Apr 01, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingli
Introduction
Dry cough and itchy throat may be related to dry air, allergic reactions, common cold, bronchitis, pneumonia, or other causes, and targeted treatments can be applied. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital. Dry air can cause the throat and respiratory mucosa to lose moisture, leading to itching and irritative cough. During recovery, maintain a light diet and avoid spicy foods to promote healing.
Dry cough and itchy throat are generally associated with factors such as dry air, allergic reactions, common cold, bronchitis, or pneumonia, and targeted treatments can be applied accordingly. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital. Specific causes and management are as follows:
1. Dry air: Dry air can cause the mucous membranes of the throat and respiratory tract to lose moisture, leading to itching and irritative coughing. As the mucosa becomes dehydrated, the throat may feel dry and itchy. Coughing is a natural defense mechanism aimed at clearing irritants from the airways and maintaining moisture. Drinking more water may help alleviate discomfort.
2. Allergic reaction: Allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites can trigger allergic reactions when inhaled. These reactions may lead to congestion and swelling of the respiratory mucosa, causing an itchy throat and cough. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride oral solution, loratadine tablets, or ketotifen fumarate capsules to relieve symptoms.
3. Common cold: Viral infections causing the common cold can lead to inflammation of the respiratory mucosa, resulting in an itchy throat and cough. The cold is often accompanied by other symptoms such as influenza-like illness, nasal congestion, and fever. Treatment may include medications such as Lianhua Qingwen capsules, Ganmaoling granules, or ibuprofen tablets, as directed by a physician.
4. Bronchitis: Bronchitis refers to inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, which may be caused by bacterial or viral infections. It leads to increased respiratory secretions that irritate the throat and trigger coughing. Medications such as azithromycin tablets, cefaclor tablets, or cefadroxil capsules may be used under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.
5. Pneumonia: Pneumonia is a lung infection commonly caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Inflammation can spread to the bronchi and airways, leading to symptoms such as an itchy throat and dry cough. Treatment may include medications such as tinidazole capsules, erythromycin tablets, or penicillin V potassium tablets, as recommended by a doctor.
During recovery, it is important to maintain a light diet and avoid spicy foods to support healing.
