Why does my throat always feel itchy and make me want to cough? What should I do?

Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. Persistent throat itching and coughing may be related to environmental irritants, excessive voice use, allergic pharyngitis, reflux pharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infections, and other causes. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and undergo general treatment, medication therapy, or other treatments under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Environmental Irritation

When the throat is exposed to cold air, smoke, dust, or other environmental irritants, it may trigger a mucosal stress response, causing throat itching and coughing. It is advisable to wear a mask and avoid prolonged exposure to polluted environments.

2. Excessive Voice Use

Continuous talking or loud shouting over extended periods can lead to vocal cord and throat muscle fatigue, causing mucosal congestion and swelling, which may result in throat itching and coughing. It is important to use your voice appropriately and avoid prolonged or loud vocal exertion.

3. Allergic Pharyngitis

Allergic pharyngitis is usually triggered by allergens such as pollen or dust mites. These allergens stimulate the pharyngeal mucosa, causing localized swelling and congestion, which leads to throat itching and coughing. Symptoms often include sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Under a physician's guidance, medications such as Loratadine tablets, Levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or Diphenhydramine hydrochloride tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Reflux Pharyngitis

Reflux pharyngitis is typically caused by gastroesophageal reflux. Stomach contents, including gastric acid, flow back into the throat, irritating the mucosa and causing inflammation, congestion, and swelling, which can lead to throat itching and coughing. Symptoms may also include acid regurgitation, heartburn, and belching. Under medical guidance, medications such as Domperidone tablets, Sucralfate chewable tablets, or Omeprazole enteric-coated capsules may be used for treatment.

5. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

Upper respiratory tract infections are commonly caused by viruses or bacteria. Inflammation of the respiratory tract can affect the throat, causing mucosal congestion and swelling, which results in throat itching and coughing. Symptoms may also include nasal congestion, runny nose, and fever. Under a physician's guidance, medications such as Compound Paracetamol and Amantadine tablets, Azithromycin tablets, or Isatis Root Granules may be used for treatment.

In daily life, maintaining good living habits, using your voice appropriately, and avoiding allergens are essential for maintaining overall health.