Why does my throat itch and feel like coughing, and what should I do?
Jun 30, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, itching in the throat and the urge to cough may be caused by environmental irritants, excessive use of the voice, acute pharyngitis, reflux laryngitis, bronchitis, or other conditions. Treatment can be carried out through general measures, medication, or other methods under a doctor's guidance. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and follow standardized treatment under the guidance of a physician.
Under normal circumstances, itchy throat and the urge to cough may be caused by environmental irritants, excessive voice use, acute pharyngitis, reflux laryngitis, bronchitis, or similar conditions. Treatment can be carried out through general methods, medication, or other approaches under a doctor's guidance. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo standardized treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Environmental Irritation
When in a dry, dusty, or irritating gaseous environment, the mucous membranes of the throat may be directly stimulated. These irritants can trigger a stress response in the nerve endings of the throat, causing itching and subsequently leading to coughing. It is advisable to avoid staying in such environments for prolonged periods. If unavoidable, wearing a mask can help reduce contact between the throat and irritants.
2. Excessive Voice Use
Behaviors such as speaking loudly for extended periods, singing, or frequently clearing the throat can lead to excessive friction and dryness of the throat mucosa. Damage to the integrity of the throat mucosa can stimulate the underlying nerve endings, causing itching and resulting in coughing. It is important to use the voice appropriately, avoid prolonged and continuous loud speaking, and develop good vocal habits.
3. Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis may be caused by bacterial or viral infections or unhealthy lifestyle habits. Pathogens infecting the throat or adverse stimuli can cause inflammation of the throat mucosa and submucosal tissues. Inflammatory irritation of nerve endings leads to itching sensations and increased throat secretions, which can trigger coughing. Symptoms such as sore throat, dryness, and a burning sensation may also occur. Patients can take medications such as Pharyngitis Tablets, Amoxicillin Capsules, and Watermelon Frost Lozenges under a doctor's guidance.
4. Reflux Laryngitis
Reflux laryngitis is typically caused by gastroesophageal reflux. Acidic reflux irritates the throat mucosa, disrupts its normal barrier function, triggers an inflammatory response, increases the sensitivity of the throat mucosa, causes throat itching, and stimulates cough receptors, leading to coughing. Symptoms such as heartburn, acid regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing may also occur. Patients can follow medical advice to use medications such as Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules, Domperidone Tablets, and Hydrotalcite Chewable Tablets for treatment.
5. Bronchitis
Bronchitis is often caused by viral or bacterial infections, long-term inhalation of harmful particles, cold air irritation, or other factors. Pathogen infection or external stimuli cause inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, leading to the aforementioned symptoms. Additional symptoms such as sputum production and shortness of breath may also occur. Patients are advised to take medications such as Cefixime Dispersible Tablets, Azithromycin for Oral Suspension, and Ribavirin Granules under a doctor's guidance.
In daily life, individuals should engage in regular exercise to enhance immunity, maintain indoor cleanliness, regularly clean and ventilate living spaces, and reduce the accumulation of dust and allergens.
