What does it mean when you have a dry, bitter throat with phlegm?

Generally, a dry and bitter throat with phlegm may be caused by insufficient water intake, consumption of spicy foods, chronic pharyngitis, reflux esophagitis, or sinusitis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Insufficient Water Intake

When daily fluid intake is too low, the mucous membranes of the throat become dry, causing secretions to thicken and form phlegm. Reduced saliva production can lead to a bitter taste in the mouth and throat. Increase water intake to no less than 1500 mL per day, drinking small amounts of lukewarm or cool boiled water frequently to keep the throat moist.

2. Spicy Diet

Long-term consumption of spicy foods such as chili peppers and Sichuan pepper can irritate the throat's mucous membranes, triggering inflammation, increasing secretions, and forming phlegm. It may also stimulate taste nerves, resulting in a bitter sensation in the throat. Adjust the diet to include milder flavors, avoid spicy and fried foods, and consume more throat-soothing foods such as pears and silver ear fungus (tremella).

3. Chronic Pharyngitis

Prolonged irritation leads to chronic inflammation of the throat's mucous membranes, causing congestion, swelling, and thick, difficult-to-expectorate secretions. Symptoms often include a dry, bitter throat and a sensation of a foreign body. Treatment may include medications such as Yinhuang Throat Tablets, Lanqin Oral Liquid, or Compound Borax Mouthwash, as directed by a physician. Avoid exposure to dust, smoking, and alcohol.

4. Reflux Esophagitis

Stomach acid flowing back into the throat can erode the mucous membrane, causing inflammation and increased secretions that form phlegm. The acid irritation results in a dry, bitter throat, often accompanied by heartburn and acid regurgitation. Medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, domperidone tablets, and hydrotalcite chewable tablets may be used under medical guidance. Avoid lying down immediately after meals.

5. Sinusitis

Inflammation due to a sinus infection produces purulent secretions that drain through the posterior nasal passages into the throat, forming phlegm and causing throat dryness and bitterness. This is often accompanied by nasal congestion and headaches. Treatments may include budesonide nasal spray, eucalyptus oil and pinene enteric soft capsules, and cefaclor capsules, as prescribed. In severe cases, surgical sinus drainage may be required.

In daily life, maintain regular作息, avoid staying up late; practice good oral hygiene by brushing teeth morning and night and rinsing the mouth after meals; keep indoor humidity at a comfortable level to prevent dry environments; if symptoms persist, seek medical attention promptly for accurate diagnosis and treatment.