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What causes a dry, itchy throat and frequent coughing?

Apr 02, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingli
Introduction
In general, a dry and itchy throat accompanied by frequent coughing may be caused by dry air, allergies, the common cold, pharyngitis, or chronic bronchitis. When the air is dry, the mucous membranes of the throat and respiratory tract are easily irritated, leading to throat dryness and irritative coughing. In daily life, maintaining a regular schedule, moderate exercise, and other healthy lifestyle habits can help support overall health.

Dryness and itchiness in the throat accompanied by frequent coughing are usually caused by dry air, allergies, colds, pharyngitis, or chronic bronchitis. When these symptoms occur, timely medical evaluation and treatment are recommended. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Dry Air: In dry environments, the throat and respiratory mucous membranes are easily irritated, leading to dryness and reflexive coughing. Rapid moisture evaporation can dehydrate the throat's mucosal lining, causing sensations of dryness, itching, and discomfort, which trigger coughing to expel irritants. Using a humidifier to increase indoor humidity is recommended.

2. Allergies: Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold spores entering the respiratory tract may trigger allergic reactions, resulting in an itchy throat and cough. Typical allergy symptoms include throat irritation, coughing, sneezing, and runny nose, which may worsen during peak allergy seasons. Medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride oral solution, loratadine tablets, or promethazine hydrochloride tablets may be used under a doctor’s guidance.

3. Common Cold: The common cold is a prevalent illness caused by viral infections of the respiratory tract and often presents with symptoms like throat itchiness and cough. Viruses irritate the throat's mucous membranes, causing discomfort and coughing, particularly during the early stages of a cold. Treatments such as Lianhua Qingwen capsules, antiviral oral liquids, or Ganmaoling granules may be used as directed by a physician.

4. Pharyngitis: Pharyngitis refers to inflammation of the throat and pharyngeal mucosa, commonly caused by viral infections or excessive vocal strain. Symptoms often include throat itchiness, a burning sensation, and coughing, which may lead to persistent throat discomfort and chronic cough. Treatment under medical supervision may include antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules, roxithromycin tablets, or azithromycin capsules.

5. Chronic Bronchitis: Chronic bronchitis is airway inflammation caused by long-term smoking, air pollution, or exposure to other irritants. Dry, itchy throat and cough are common symptoms, often worsening upon waking or after physical activity. Medications such as penicillin V potassium tablets, amoxicillin tablets, or ribavirin granules may be prescribed by a doctor for treatment.

In daily life, maintaining regular sleep patterns and engaging in moderate exercise—adopting a healthy lifestyle—can support overall well-being.

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