What causes dryness in the throat with a sensation of cold air entering during breathing, and what should be done about it?

When breathing, a dry throat accompanied by a sensation of cold air may result from dry environment, insufficient water intake, chronic pharyngitis, allergic pharyngitis, or atrophic rhinitis. Symptoms can be improved by humidifying the environment, increasing fluid intake, or using medications. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by sore throat or cough, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Dry environment: Low humidity in the surrounding air causes rapid evaporation of moisture from the throat's mucous membrane, leading to dryness. Airflow directly stimulating the mucosa may also produce a cool sensation. It is recommended to use a humidifier to increase indoor humidity and avoid spending prolonged periods in air-conditioned or heated rooms.

2. Insufficient water intake: Inadequate daily fluid consumption deprives the throat's mucous membrane of necessary moisture. During breathing, airflow irritates the dry mucosa, worsening sensations of dryness, itchiness, and cold air. It is advised to drink sufficient water throughout the day in small amounts frequently, rather than consuming large volumes at once.

3. Chronic pharyngitis: Prolonged vocal strain or exposure to dust and irritants may lead to chronic inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa. The inflamed mucosa becomes congested and dry; airflow during breathing irritates the affected area, causing dryness, itchiness, and a cool sensation, often accompanied by a feeling of a foreign body in the throat. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as Qinghou Lixian Granules, Watermelon Frost Throat Lozenges, or Compound Borax Mouthwash to alleviate symptoms.

4. Allergic pharyngitis: After exposure to allergens like pollen or house dust mites, the pharyngeal mucosa undergoes an allergic reaction, resulting in dryness and swelling. Breathing then causes throat dryness and a cool sensation, often associated with paroxysmal coughing. Under medical supervision, medications such as Loratadine Syrup, Montelukast Sodium Chewable Tablets, or Budesonide Suspension may be used to relieve discomfort.

5. Atrophic rhinitis: Dry climate or vitamin deficiency may cause nasal mucosal atrophy and dryness, reducing the nose’s ability to humidify inhaled air. As a result, airflow passes directly into the throat during breathing, causing throat dryness and a cool sensation, along with nasal dryness and crusting. Patients may follow medical advice to use Normal Saline Nasal Spray, Compound Menthol Nasal Drops, or Vitamin A&D Drops to improve symptoms.

Maintain indoor ventilation and appropriate humidity levels, avoid spicy, irritating foods and dusty environments, develop consistent hydration habits, wear a mask outdoors to reduce direct airflow irritation, and use your voice moderately to allow adequate rest for the throat.