What causes a dry throat with phlegm?
Dec 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, a dry throat with phlegm may be caused by factors such as a dry environment, excessive voice use, chronic pharyngitis, rhinitis, or bronchitis. To help prevent this symptom in daily life, it is recommended to maintain appropriate indoor humidity and avoid excessively dry air. Additionally, plan voice usage reasonably and avoid speaking continuously for long periods or shouting loudly.
Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. Dryness and phlegm in the throat may be caused by factors such as dry environment, excessive voice use, chronic pharyngitis, rhinitis, or bronchitis. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Dry Environment
Dryness and phlegm in the throat may be caused by a dry environment. When the air humidity is low, the throat mucosa easily loses moisture and becomes dry, thereby stimulating mucus secretion to provide lubrication. Maintaining indoor humidity with a humidifier and drinking plenty of water to ensure adequate hydration are recommended.
2. Excessive Voice Use
Extended talking or loud shouting can cause congestion and swelling of the throat mucosa, stimulating mucus secretion. It is advisable to schedule voice usage appropriately, avoid speaking continuously for long periods, and rest the throat adequately.
3. Chronic Pharyngitis
Chronic pharyngitis may result from recurrent acute pharyngitis, chronic inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, excessive smoking or alcohol consumption, and other factors. Chronic inflammation may cause congestion and swelling of the throat mucosa, increased secretions, and phlegm formation. Symptoms may also include a foreign body sensation, burning, or mild pain in the throat. Medications such as compound borax mouthwash, cetaben iodine tablets, and menthol throat lozenges should be used according to medical advice to alleviate symptoms.
4. Rhinitis
Rhinitis may be caused by viral infections, allergen irritation, or other factors. Rhinitis leads to increased nasal secretions, some of which may drain into the throat, forming phlegm. It is often accompanied by nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. Treatment may include medications such as budesonide nasal spray, quercetin fluticasone nasal spray, and loratadine tablets, under a doctor's guidance.
5. Bronchitis
Bronchitis may be related to bacterial or viral infections or irritation from physical and chemical factors. Bronchial inflammation causes congestion and swelling of the bronchial mucosa, increased secretions, and phlegm expelled through coughing. Symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, and fever. Treatment may involve expectorant medications such as amoxicillin clavulanate potassium tablets, cefaclor capsules, and ambroxol hydrochloride oral solution, as advised by a physician.
In daily life, it is recommended to maintain appropriate indoor humidity and avoid excessively dry air. Voice usage should be scheduled reasonably, avoiding prolonged or loud speaking.
