What are the symptoms of chronic pharyngitis?

Dec 01, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lu Cheng

Introduction

Symptoms of chronic pharyngitis include a foreign body sensation in the throat, dryness and itching of the pharynx, soreness or discomfort, irritative cough, and increased secretions. It is often caused by repeated episodes of acute pharyngitis or long-term irritation, with a prolonged course that tends to persist. If symptoms last for more than 3 months or worsen, timely medical consultation is recommended. There is often a persistent feeling of phlegm or foreign material adhering to the throat, difficult to cough up

Chronic pharyngitis is characterized by symptoms such as a foreign body sensation in the throat, dryness and itching of the pharynx, discomfort or pain, irritative cough, and increased secretions. It often results from repeated episodes of acute pharyngitis or long-term irritation, with a prolonged course that tends to become persistent. If symptoms last more than three months or worsen, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Foreign body sensation: A constant feeling of mucus or a foreign object stuck in the throat that cannot be coughed up or swallowed. The sensation becomes more noticeable during swallowing. Although it does not affect eating, frequent throat clearing can interfere with daily communication and quality of life.

2. Dryness and itching: The pharyngeal mucosa remains chronically dry and itchy. Symptoms tend to worsen upon waking or after excessive talking. Patients may experience an uncontrollable dry cough to relieve discomfort, but excessive coughing may further damage the pharyngeal mucosa.

3. Throat pain or discomfort: A dull, distending, or pricking pain in the throat—usually mild but persistent. Pain intensifies after consuming spicy or hot foods, or following physical fatigue. In some patients, the pain may radiate to the neck.

4. Irritative cough: Triggered by secretions, dust, or cold air irritating the throat, this type of cough is paroxysmal and mostly dry, with little or no sputum. Coughing tends to occur more frequently at night or upon waking.

5. Increased secretions: Excessive production of viscous mucus in the throat that is difficult to expel. The mucus adheres to the pharyngeal wall, causing a sticky or sticky-coating sensation. Frequent throat clearing provides little relief, and some patients may experience mild nausea.

Treatment may include using medicated mouthwashes under medical guidance or taking traditional Chinese medicines aimed at soothing the throat. Proper care involves maintaining good oral hygiene, drinking plenty of water to keep the throat moist, avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and spicy or irritating foods, minimizing excessive voice use, ensuring indoor humidity and ventilation, and maintaining regular sleep patterns to boost immunity.

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