Why does a pregnant woman have a dry throat and always feel like coughing?

Dec 09, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Dry throat and frequent coughing during pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes, dry environment, chronic pharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infections, or allergic coughing. Symptoms can be improved through lifestyle adjustments, maintaining environmental humidity, and medication when necessary. If symptoms worsen or are accompanied by fever or sore throat, prompt medical attention is required. Fluctuating hormone levels during pregnancy can affect the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.

Pregnant women may experience dry throat and frequent coughing due to hormonal changes, dry environment, chronic pharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infections, or allergic coughing. Symptoms can be improved through lifestyle adjustments, humidifying the environment, and medical treatment. If symptoms worsen or are accompanied by fever or sore throat, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels during pregnancy can cause congestion and dryness of the respiratory mucosa, leading to a dry throat and irritating cough. It is recommended to drink plenty of warm water to soothe the throat, avoid speaking loudly, and reduce throat irritation.

2. Dry environment: Insufficient indoor humidity causes rapid moisture loss from the throat's mucous membrane, resulting in dryness and coughing. It is advised to use a humidifier to increase air moisture, open windows regularly for ventilation, and avoid staying in air-conditioned rooms for extended periods.

3. Chronic pharyngitis: Long-term irritation of the throat mucosa leads to chronic inflammation, causing dryness and increased secretions, which result in a dry throat and frequent dry cough. Under a doctor’s guidance, medications such as Qinghou Liyan Granules, Watermelon Frost Throat Lozenges, or Compound Borax Mouthwash may be used to relieve symptoms.

4. Upper respiratory tract infection: Viral or bacterial infections causing nasal or pharyngeal inflammation can lead to throat dryness and coughing, possibly accompanied by runny nose or mild sore throat. Under medical supervision, medications such as Isatis Root Granules, Cefaclor Capsules, or Chuanbei Pipa Syrup may help alleviate discomfort.

5. Allergic cough: Exposure to allergens such as pollen or dust mites triggers an allergic reaction in the respiratory tract, manifesting as throat dryness and paroxysmal coughing. Patients may follow medical advice to use Loratadine Syrup, Budesonide Suspension, or Montelukast Sodium Chewable Tablets to improve symptoms.

Maintain clean and well-ventilated indoor environments, avoid allergens, eat a light diet rich in fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water to keep the throat moist, maintain regular sleep patterns to prevent fatigue, and engage in moderate walking to strengthen physical health and reduce the occurrence of discomfort.