What causes a dry and itchy throat?

Generally, a dry and itchy throat refers to the condition of dryness accompanied by itching in the throat. A dry throat with itching may be caused by factors such as dry environment, excessive voice use, allergic pharyngitis, chronic pharyngitis, acute tonsillitis, and others. If the above conditions occur, timely medical treatment is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Dry Environment

When the air humidity is low, the throat mucosa easily loses moisture and becomes dry, leading to symptoms of dryness and itching in the throat. Maintaining an appropriate indoor humidity level is recommended; this can be achieved by using a humidifier or placing a water basin indoors to increase air humidity. Additionally, drinking more water helps replenish body fluids.

2. Excessive Voice Use

Speaking for prolonged periods or shouting loudly can cause congestion and swelling of the throat mucosa, which may lead to discomfort such as dryness, itching, and pain in the throat. It is advisable to avoid speaking continuously for long periods or shouting loudly, and to protect the throat by allowing adequate rest.

3. Allergic Pharyngitis

Allergic pharyngitis is usually triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and animal dander irritating the throat mucosa. These allergens stimulate the throat mucosa, causing congestion, swelling, and excessive mucus secretion, which can lead to symptoms such as dryness, itching, and coughing in the throat. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion may also be present. Treatment may include medications such as Loratadine tablets, Cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, and Chlorpheniramine maleate tablets, taken under medical guidance.

4. Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis is often caused by chronic inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, excessive smoking or alcohol consumption, and other factors. Chronic pharyngitis leads to congestion and swelling of the throat mucosa, increased secretions, and irritation of the throat nerves, resulting in symptoms such as dryness and itching in the throat. Patients may also experience sensations such as a foreign body in the throat, burning, or mild pain. Treatment may include medications such as Pharyngitis Tablets, Compound Honeysuckle Granules, and Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, taken under medical guidance.

5. Acute Tonsillitis

Acute tonsillitis is often caused by bacterial or viral infections, such as those caused by group B hemolytic streptococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, and other pathogens. Acute tonsillitis causes congestion and swelling of the throat mucosa, increased secretions, and irritation of the throat nerves, leading to symptoms such as dryness, itching, and pain in the throat. It may also be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as high fever, headache, and fatigue. Treatment may include medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Cefuroxime Axetil Tablets, and Pudilan Anti-inflammatory Oral Liquid, taken under a doctor's guidance. If the condition is severe, prompt medical attention is required, and intravenous therapy may be necessary.

To maintain throat health, one should maintain a balanced diet, avoid irritant foods, ensure adequate fluid intake, and use the voice appropriately to prevent discomfort such as dryness and itching in the throat.