What causes a sore throat, coughing, and phlegm? What should I do?

Jun 30, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, symptoms such as an itchy throat and coughing with phlegm may be caused by environmental irritants, excessive voice use, acute pharyngitis, allergic rhinitis, chronic bronchitis, or other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow standardized treatment under a doctor's guidance. It is also advised to clean your room regularly, maintain fresh indoor air, and avoid prolonged exposure to irritating environments.

     Under normal circumstances, itchy throat, cough, and phlegm may be caused by environmental irritation, excessive voice use, acute pharyngitis, allergic rhinitis, chronic bronchitis, and other factors. These conditions can be treated with general treatment and medication under the guidance of a physician. If symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo standardized treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Detailed analysis is as follows:

     

     1. Environmental Irritation

     Long-term exposure to irritating substances in the environment, such as cold air, smoke, dust, or certain chemicals, may irritate the mucous membrane of the throat, causing local inflammation and allergic reactions, leading to throat discomfort and mucus secretion. One should avoid prolonged exposure to irritating environments, such as smoky or areas with poor air quality.

     2. Excessive Voice Use

     Prolonged or loud speaking, singing, and other behaviors of excessive voice use can cause congestion and edema of the throat mucosa, leading to symptoms such as itchy throat, cough, and phlegm. It is important to schedule voice use reasonably and avoid prolonged continuous talking or loud shouting.

     3. Acute Pharyngitis

     Acute pharyngitis is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections. The inflammation leads to congestion and edema of the throat mucosa, stimulating the throat nerves, causing itchy throat, cough with phlegm. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever. Treatment can be carried out under the guidance of a physician using medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Ribavirin Granules, and Isatis Root Granules.

     4. Allergic Rhinitis

     Allergic rhinitis is usually triggered by allergens such as pollen and house dust mites. These allergens stimulate the throat mucosa, causing itchy throat, cough, and excessive phlegm production. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and nasal itching. Treatment can be conducted under the guidance of a physician using medications such as Cetirizine Tablets, Budesonide Nasal Spray, and Montelukast Sodium Tablets.

     5. Chronic Bronchitis

     Chronic bronchitis is generally caused by long-term irritation of the bronchial mucosa due to factors such as smoking, air pollution, and occupational dust exposure. Long-term damage to the bronchial mucosa leads to increased secretions, causing symptoms such as itchy throat, cough, and sputum production. It may also be accompanied by wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Treatment can be administered under the guidance of a physician using medications such as Salbutamol Aerosol, Ambroxol Hydrochloride Oral Solution, and Cefradine Capsules.

     It is recommended to clean the room regularly and maintain fresh indoor air, avoiding prolonged exposure to irritating environments. Avoid high-fat, spicy, and irritating foods, and maintain a balanced diet, which helps protect the throat and digestive system health.

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