What should I do for a dry, sore throat with a sensation of a foreign body?
Nov 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, a dry or sore throat with a foreign body sensation may be caused by dry air, excessive voice use over a long period, acute episodes of chronic pharyngitis, reflux laryngitis, or compression from an epiglottic cyst. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, or other treatments. In daily life, avoid spicy, excessively hot, or fried foods, and quit smoking and alcohol consumption.
Dryness and pain in the throat with a sensation of a foreign body are usually caused by factors such as dry air, prolonged vocal strain, acute episodes of chronic pharyngitis, reflux laryngitis, or compression from an epiglottic cyst. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention to identify the underlying cause and, under a doctor's guidance, improve symptoms through general management, medication, and other treatments. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Dry Air: Prolonged exposure to air-conditioned rooms or dry climates can lead to moisture loss in the throat mucosa, reducing its elasticity and causing dryness, pain, and a sensation of a foreign body—mainly due to drying and shrinkage of the mucous membrane. Using a humidifier indoors to maintain humidity between 50% and 60%, and rinsing the mouth with normal saline twice daily, can help alleviate symptoms.
2. Prolonged Vocal Strain: Individuals such as teachers and salespeople who frequently use their voices may experience repeated congestion and swelling of the throat mucosa, leading to chronic irritation that manifests as throat dryness, pain, and a foreign body sensation. Reducing speaking frequency, avoiding shouting, and speaking at a moderate pace can minimize excessive vibration of the vocal cords.
3. Acute Episode of Chronic Pharyngitis: Chronic inflammation may develop if acute pharyngitis is inadequately treated or due to long-term irritation. The throat mucosa becomes thickened and hyperplastic, with mucus secretions adhering to the surface, resulting in a foreign body sensation along with dryness and burning pain. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as Pudilan Anti-inflammatory Oral Liquid, Lanqin Oral Liquid, or Compound Herba Patriniae Spray to reduce inflammation.
4. Reflux Laryngitis: When stomach contents flow back into the throat, gastric acid irritates the mucosa, causing inflammation, throat pain, and a sensation of a foreign body. Symptoms are typically worse upon waking and often accompanied by heartburn and acid regurgitation. Treatment may include medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, domperidone tablets, and hydrotalcite chewable tablets, taken as directed by a physician.
5. Epiglottic Cyst Compression: Blockage of mucosal glands in the epiglottis can lead to cyst formation. As the cyst enlarges, it compresses the throat, causing a foreign body sensation and throat pain, potentially impairing swallowing in severe cases. When medication fails, surgical removal of the epiglottic cyst under supportive laryngoscopy may be performed to relieve compression and restore normal structure and function of the throat.
In daily life, avoid spicy, hot, and fried foods; quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing teeth morning and night and rinsing after meals. Comprehensive care helps promote healing of the throat mucosa and relieve discomfort.
