What medicine should I take for a cold with an itchy throat?
Apr 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the throat refers to the pharynx. Itching in the throat associated with a cold may be caused by dry air, excessive use of the voice, the common cold, acute pharyngitis, acute epiglottitis, or other related causes. It is recommended to seek timely medical advice and, under a doctor's guidance, use medications such as Compound Paracetamol and Amantadine Tablets, Ganmaoling Granules, Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, Yinhuang Tablets, Azithromycin Tablets, etc., for treatment. A detailed analysis is as follows:
Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. Itching in the throat when having a cold may be caused by factors such as dry air, excessive voice use, common cold, acute pharyngitis, or acute epiglottitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and use medications such as compound paracetamol and amantadine tablets, Ganmaoling granules, Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, Yinhuang tablets, or azithromycin tablets under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Dry Air
In a dry environment, moisture on the pharyngeal mucosa evaporates quickly, causing the mucosa to become dry and fragile, which stimulates nerve endings and leads to a sensation of throat itching. Usually, no medication is required. Using a humidifier to increase indoor air humidity is recommended. Also, regularly clean the humidifier to prevent bacterial growth, and drink plenty of water to keep the throat moist.
2. Excessive Voice Use
Extended periods of loud talking or singing can cause throat muscle fatigue and frequent friction of the vocal cords, leading to localized congestion, swelling, and increased sensitivity in the throat, which may cause throat itching. Generally, medication is not required. It is advisable to use your voice appropriately and avoid prolonged continuous speaking. If long periods of talking are necessary, schedule adequate rest intervals.
3. Common Cold
The common cold is primarily caused by viral infections, such as rhinovirus or coronavirus. After invading the upper respiratory tract, the virus multiplies extensively on the pharyngeal mucosa, irritating the throat nerves and causing throat itching. Symptoms often include sneezing and runny nose. Under a physician's guidance, medications such as compound paracetamol and amantadine tablets, Ganmaoling granules, or Vitamin C Yinqiao tablets may be used for treatment.
4. Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is mostly caused by viral infections, though a minority of cases are due to bacterial infections. Viruses or bacteria invade the pharyngeal mucosa and lymphatic tissues, causing inflammation that stimulates the throat and leads to itching. Symptoms may also include throat pain and a burning sensation. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, Yinhuang tablets, or Guilin Watermelon Frost lozenges.
5. Acute Epiglottitis
Acute epiglottitis is commonly caused by infection, allergy, trauma, or other factors. The epiglottis develops acute inflammation, causing swelling that irritates surrounding nerves and results in throat itching. Symptoms may also include difficulty swallowing and breathing difficulties. Under a physician's recommendation, medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, azithromycin tablets, or levofloxacin tablets may be used for treatment.
In daily life, it is important to adjust clothing according to weather changes to avoid cold exposure, strengthen physical exercise to improve immunity, maintain good indoor air circulation, and reduce bacterial and viral proliferation.
