Why does my throat itch so much that I can't control the coughing, and what should I do?

Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. Itching in the throat and uncontrollable coughing may be caused by adverse environmental factors, improper diet, acute pharyngitis, chronic pharyngitis, bronchitis, and other conditions. Treatment options include general treatment and medication under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Adverse Environment

When exposed to irritating environments, such as dry air, smoke, dust, chemical gases, or allergens like pollen, these substances can irritate the pharyngeal mucosa, causing an itchy sensation in the throat. Once the pharyngeal mucosa is irritated, it triggers a cough reflex through neural pathways in an attempt to expel these irritants. It is advisable to avoid contact with irritants as much as possible and to wear a mask in environments with high levels of pollution or allergens.

2. Improper Diet

Consuming excessive amounts of spicy, hot, or irritating foods may directly stimulate the pharyngeal mucosa, causing throat itching. Stimulation of the pharyngeal mucosa can also trigger local neural reflexes, leading to coughing in an attempt to expel the irritants. Maintaining healthy dietary habits is important. Avoid consuming excessive spicy or irritating foods, ensure food is at an appropriate temperature, chew slowly, and prevent excessive irritation to the pharyngeal mucosa.

3. Acute Pharyngitis

Acute pharyngitis is primarily caused by viral or bacterial infections. After infection in the pharyngeal area, the inflammation irritates the pharyngeal mucosa, leaving it congested and hypersensitive, resulting in an itchy sensation. Inflammatory factors stimulate cough receptors beneath the mucosa, triggering a cough reflex. Symptoms may also include sore throat and a burning sensation. Under the guidance of a physician, medications such as Cefalexin Granules, Amoxicillin Capsules, and Roxithromycin Dispersible Tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis often results from recurrent episodes of acute pharyngitis, nasal or sinus diseases causing postnasal drip, long-term smoking and alcohol consumption, and other factors. The throat remains in a state of chronic inflammation for a prolonged period, with submucosal tissue hyperplasia and thickening, and increased sensitivity of nerve endings, making it prone to itching. Inflammatory stimulation repeatedly triggers the cough reflex, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and dry vomiting. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as Yinhuang Tablets, Pharyngitis Tablets, and Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid for treatment.

5. Bronchitis

Bronchitis is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections, or may be triggered by factors such as air pollution and smoking. Inflammation of the bronchi can lead to increased secretions, some of which flow upward to the throat, irritating the pharyngeal mucosa and causing an itchy sensation. At the same time, the inflammation stimulates cough receptors in the bronchial mucosa, triggering a cough reflex. The act of coughing can also affect the throat, exacerbating the itching. Patients may also experience symptoms such as wheezing and chest tightness. Under a physician's recommendation, patients may use medications such as Theophylline Sustained-Release Tablets, Ambroxol and Clenbuterol Oral Solution, and Montelukast Sodium Tablets for treatment.

Maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid touching the mouth and nose with hands, and reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria. Additionally, keep indoor areas clean, perform regular cleaning to reduce the accumulation of dust and allergens, and minimize throat irritation.