What should I do if my throat itches and I start coughing?

Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. Itching in the throat that leads to coughing may be caused by poor environmental conditions, dietary irritation, chronic pharyngitis, bronchitis, cough variant asthma, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and adopt general treatments and medication under the guidance of a doctor. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Poor Environmental Conditions

When staying in dry, dusty, or environments with irritating gases or severe air pollution for a prolonged period, the pharyngeal mucosa may be directly stimulated, potentially triggering a cough reflex aimed at clearing these irritants, thus causing coughing when the throat itches. One should avoid staying in such adverse environments for long periods. If unavoidable, wearing a protective mask can reduce contact with harmful substances.

2. Dietary Irritation

Consuming excessive spicy, greasy, overly sweet, or acidic foods may affect the normal physiological environment of the throat, irritating the pharyngeal mucosa and causing congestion, edema, or increased sensitivity, which leads to itching and subsequently triggers a cough reflex to relieve discomfort in the throat. Maintaining a balanced diet, reducing intake of such irritant foods, and increasing consumption of vegetables, fruits, and foods rich in vitamins and moisture are recommended.

3. Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis often results from repeated episodes of acute pharyngitis, long-term smoking and alcohol consumption, or nasal and sinus diseases causing postnasal drip. The throat remains in a state of chronic inflammation for a long time, with submucosal tissue hyperplasia and thickening, and increased sensitivity of nerve endings, making itching sensations easy to occur. Even minor stimuli can trigger coughing, which may also be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and dry heaving. Medications such as Jinlang Lianyan Pills, Compound Borax Mouthwash, and Pharyngitis Tablets can be used under a doctor's guidance for treatment.

4. Bronchitis

Bronchitis can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, physical or chemical irritants, or allergic reactions. It may lead to congestion and edema of the bronchial mucosa, increased secretions, and throat irritation causing coughing. Symptoms such as expectoration and wheezing may also occur. Patients can use medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Compound Licorice Oral Solution, and Ambroxol Hydrochloride Oral Solution according to a doctor's recommendations.

5. Cough Variant Asthma

Cough variant asthma is often associated with genetic factors, environmental factors, respiratory tract infections, and immune dysfunction. Chronic inflammation and hyperresponsiveness exist in the airways. When exposed to irritants such as cold air or pungent odors, airway smooth muscle contracts, mucosa becomes congested and edematous, leading to the above symptoms, which may also be accompanied by chest tightness. Treatment should follow medical advice to use medications such as Montelukast Sodium Tablets, Budesonide Inhalation Aerosol, and Azithromycin Tablets.

In daily life, it is important to maintain fresh indoor air, regularly clean rooms to reduce allergens and dust; develop good living habits, maintain regular作息 (作息 means作息 in Chinese, which refers to daily routines), ensure sufficient sleep, avoid staying up late and excessive fatigue, and maintain the body's normal physiological functions.