How to treat dry cough and itchy throat
Apr 02, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingli
Introduction
Dry cough usually refers to a non-productive cough. In general, dry cough and itchy throat are commonly caused by improper diet, dry indoor air, allergic cough, pharyngitis, bronchitis, and other reasons. Patients are advised to improve symptoms through appropriate interventions based on the underlying cause, such as general management, physical therapy, oral medications, nebulization therapy, or surgical treatment. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical care to avoid delaying diagnosis and treatment.
Dry cough usually refers to a non-productive cough. In general, dry cough and itchy throat are commonly caused by improper diet, dry indoor air, allergic cough, pharyngitis, or bronchitis. Patients are advised to improve symptoms through appropriate interventions based on the underlying cause, including general management, physical therapy, oral medications, nebulization therapy, or surgical treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Improper Diet
Consuming excessive spicy, greasy, or irritating foods—such as chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, and black pepper—may directly irritate the mucous membranes of the throat, causing congestion and swelling, which in turn leads to dry cough and an itchy throat. It is recommended that patients drink more water and reduce their intake of spicy and irritating foods.
2. Dry Indoor Air
When indoor humidity is low, moisture from the mucous membranes in the throat may evaporate, leading to dryness and increased sensitivity, thereby triggering symptoms of dry cough and throat irritation. Patients are advised to drink warm water regularly and consume water-rich fruits such as pears and dragon fruit, which help hydrate the body and alleviate discomfort to some extent.
3. Allergic Cough
Individuals with allergic constitutions may develop allergic cough upon exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or animal dander. This type of cough is often accompanied by symptoms like throat itching and a sensation of a foreign body. Patients may take antihistamines such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or ebastine tablets under medical guidance. Additionally, nebulized medications such as salbutamol aerosol, budesonide/formoterol inhalation powder, or terbutaline sulfate nebulizing solution may be used as directed by a physician.
4. Pharyngitis
Prolonged exposure to polluted environments may lead to bacterial infection and subsequent pharyngitis. Most patients experience symptoms such as throat itching, sore throat, and cough. As the condition progresses, increased pharyngeal secretions and persistent throat discomfort may occur. Patients may take medications such as cydiodine lozenges, watermelon frost throat tablets, or azithromycin capsules as prescribed. Adequate rest and avoidance of overexertion are also important.
5. Bronchitis
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial mucosa caused by microbial infections or physical/chemical irritants. The inflammation leads to congestion and swelling of the bronchial mucosa, resulting in secretions that stimulate the cough center, causing dry cough and throat irritation. Patients may take antibiotics such as cefixime granules, levofloxacin capsules, or amoxicillin capsules as directed by a doctor. In severe cases, prompt medical attention at a qualified hospital may be necessary, and surgical interventions such as bronchoscopic lavage or lobectomy might be required.
Patients are advised to seek timely medical care to avoid disease progression. Consuming foods rich in moisture may help relieve symptoms of dry cough and throat irritation. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, such as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, is essential.
