Frequently feeling a foreign body sensation in the throat, sometimes accompanied by coughing and sore throat—what could be the cause, and what should be done?

Feeling a foreign body sensation in the throat frequently, sometimes accompanied by coughing or sore throat, may be caused by dry environments, dietary irritation, chronic pharyngitis, acute tonsillitis, allergic pharyngitis, etc. Symptoms can be improved through moisturizing care, dietary adjustments, and medication. If symptoms persist for more than one week or worsen, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Dry Environment: Prolonged exposure to dry conditions can lead to moisture loss in the throat's mucous membrane, increasing its sensitivity and causing a foreign body sensation. Dryness may also trigger coughing and mild sore throat. It is recommended to use a humidifier to increase indoor humidity and maintain daily water intake of at least 1500 mL to relieve mucosal dryness.

2. Dietary Irritation: Frequent consumption of spicy or excessively hot foods, as well as long-term smoking or alcohol use, can cause congestion and irritation of the throat's mucous membrane, leading to a foreign body sensation. In severe cases, this may be accompanied by coughing and throat pain. A light diet is advised—avoid spicy or hot foods, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and reduce irritation to the throat lining.

3. Chronic Pharyngitis: Long-term inflammation irritates the throat's mucous membrane, causing congestion, swelling, and increased secretions that adhere to the throat, resulting in a foreign body sensation along with irritating cough and dull pain. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as watermelon frost lozenges, Qinghou Liyan granules, or compound borax mouthwash to alleviate symptoms.

4. Acute Tonsillitis: Bacterial or viral infections can cause tonsil inflammation, leading to swollen tonsils that stimulate the throat and produce a foreign body sensation, often accompanied by severe sore throat and coughing. Under medical supervision, medications such as amoxicillin capsules, Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid, or ibuprofen suspension may be used to relieve discomfort.

5. Allergic Pharyngitis: After exposure to allergens such as pollen or dust mites, the throat's mucous membrane may undergo an allergic reaction, causing a foreign body sensation along with paroxysmal coughing, throat itching, and soreness. As directed by a physician, patients may take loratadine syrup, montelukast sodium chewable tablets, or budesonide suspension to improve symptoms.

Maintain good indoor ventilation and cleanliness, avoid allergen exposure, rinse mouth regularly with warm water, choose mild and easily digestible foods, and engage in moderate exercise to strengthen physical health and support recovery of the throat's mucous membrane.