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Why does an itchy throat always make one want to cough?

Jan 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, a persistent itchy throat accompanied by a frequent urge to cough may be caused by throat irritation, food residue, a cold, pharyngitis, bronchitis, or other similar conditions. To help prevent this symptom, it is recommended to regularly clean your living space to reduce the accumulation of dust and allergens. Avoid excessive use of your voice and limit prolonged loud speaking or singing to protect the health of your throat.

Generally, the term "throat" refers to the pharynx. A persistently itchy throat that triggers coughing may be caused by pharyngeal irritation, food residue, common cold, pharyngitis, bronchitis, or other reasons. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Pharyngeal Irritation

Pharyngeal irritation refers to the stimulation of the throat area by external factors, triggering coughing to expel foreign substances or relieve discomfort. It is advisable to maintain indoor air humidity by using humidifiers or placing water basins.

2. Food Residue

During meals, small food particles or crumbs may remain in the throat area, causing a foreign body sensation and resulting in an itchy feeling that leads to coughing. Eating slowly and avoiding talking and laughing while eating can reduce the chance of food residue. Drinking water appropriately after meals helps clear the throat.

3. Common Cold

A common cold is usually caused by a virus, including both the common cold and influenza. Viruses attack the throat, causing mucosal inflammation and increased secretions, which stimulate the throat, leading to itching and coughing. Patients may also experience nasal congestion, runny nose, fever, and general fatigue. Medications such as paracetamol tablets, antiviral oral liquid, and Chuanbei枇杷膏 (Loquat syrup) can be used under a doctor's guidance.

4. Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis may be caused by bacterial or viral infections of the throat. Inflammation leads to congestion and edema of the throat mucosa, stimulating nerve endings and causing throat itching and coughing. Symptoms may also include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as amoxicillin capsules, ribavirin granules, and honeysuckle granules.

5. Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, which may be caused by bacterial, viral infections, or environmental factors. The inflammation increases bronchial secretions, which irritate the throat, causing itching and coughing. Accompanying symptoms may include sputum production, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Treatment may include medications such as cefradine capsules, salbutamol aerosol, and ambroxol hydrochloride oral solution, under a doctor's instructions.

To prevent this symptom, it is recommended to regularly clean living spaces to reduce the accumulation of dust and allergens. Avoid excessive voice strain and prolonged loud talking or singing to protect throat health.

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