What causes a cold breeze sensation in the throat when breathing, and what should be done about it?

Nov 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
A sensation of cold air entering the throat during breathing may be caused by dry environment, inhaling cold air, acute pharyngitis, chronic pharyngitis, or allergic pharyngitis. This can be improved through moisturizing care, keeping warm, protective measures, and medication. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by sore throat or cough, prompt medical attention is necessary. Insufficient air humidity can lead to throat discomfort.

When breathing, the sensation of cold air entering the throat may be caused by dry environments, inhaling cold air, acute pharyngitis, chronic pharyngitis, allergic pharyngitis, etc. This can be improved through moisturizing care, warmth protection, and medication. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by sore throat or cough, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Dry Environment: Insufficient air humidity causes loss of moisture from the pharyngeal mucosa, leading to dryness and sensitivity, resulting in a cold-air sensation during breathing. It is recommended to use a humidifier to increase environmental humidity, drink plenty of warm water, and avoid prolonged stays in air-conditioned or heated rooms.

2. Inhaling Cold Air: Frequently breathing in cold air stimulates vasoconstriction of the pharyngeal mucosal blood vessels, increasing mucosal sensitivity and causing a cold-air-like discomfort. It is advised to wear a mask outdoors, avoid taking large breaths of cold air, and reduce consumption of raw or cold foods.

3. Acute Pharyngitis: Viral or bacterial infections cause acute inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa, leading to mucosal congestion and dryness. Breathing irritates the affected area, producing a cold-air sensation, often accompanied by sore throat and hoarseness. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid, Cefaclor Dispersible Tablets, and Xigua Shuang Throat Lozenges to relieve discomfort.

4. Chronic Pharyngitis: Long-term inflammatory stimulation leads to chronic congestion and dryness of the pharyngeal mucosa, with impaired mucosal barrier function, making a cold-air sensation common during breathing. Symptoms may include a foreign body sensation in the throat and dry cough. Patients may use Qinghou Liyan Granules, Compound Chlorhexidine Gargle Solution, or Liyan Jiedu Granules under medical supervision to improve symptoms.

5. Allergic Pharyngitis: Exposure to allergens such as pollen or dust triggers an allergic reaction in the pharyngeal mucosa, causing mucosal edema and dryness. This results in a cold-air sensation during breathing, often accompanied by throat itching and paroxysmal coughing. Patients may follow medical advice to use Loratadine Syrup, Montelukast Sodium Chewable Tablets, or Budesonide Suspension to alleviate symptoms.

Maintain appropriate indoor humidity, drink plenty of water to keep the throat moist, take protective measures when going outdoors to avoid irritation, eat a light diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintain regular作息 (sleep patterns), strengthen physical health, and reduce occurrences of throat discomfort.