Why Do I Always Feel an Itch in My Throat and Want to Cough?
An itchy throat with a constant urge to cough can be caused by lung diseases, chronic pharyngitis, allergies, gastroesophageal reflux, or cancer.
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Lung diseases are common causes of an itchy throat and cough. For instance, bronchitis, pneumonia, and even COVID-19 infection can cause similar symptoms. If you have recently been in contact with someone with COVID-19 or experience symptoms such as fever and dyspnea, it is recommended to undergo nucleic acid testing and lung examination as soon as possible.
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Chronic pharyngitis is another frequent cause. Long-term smoking, alcohol consumption, and overuse of the voice can easily lead to chronic pharyngitis. Patients with chronic pharyngitis often feel dryness and itchiness in their throat, even with a foreign body sensation, resulting in frequent coughing. Maintaining good living habits, such as quitting smoking and alcohol, and drinking more water, can effectively alleviate symptoms.
3.
Allergies are also one of the common reasons for an itchy throat and cough. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet hair can trigger allergic coughs. If you notice that your symptoms worsen in specific seasons or environments, consider undergoing allergy testing to identify specific allergens and take corresponding avoidance measures.
4.
Gastroesophageal reflux, where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and even the throat, can also cause throat itchiness and cough. This condition often worsens at night or after eating. Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease can relieve symptoms by adjusting dietary habits, avoiding high-fat foods and caffeine, and elevating the head of the bed. In severe cases, medical attention may be required, and medication may be necessary.
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Although rare, an itchy throat and cough can also be early signs of certain cancers, such as throat cancer and lung cancer. If symptoms persist for a long time and are accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss, hoarseness, and dysphagia, it is recommended to seek medical attention for a comprehensive examination as soon as possible.
In daily life, we can take some measures to prevent and relieve the symptoms of an itchy throat and cough:
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Dry air can easily irritate the throat. Using a humidifier can effectively improve indoor air humidity and relieve throat dryness and itchiness.
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Keeping the body well-hydrated helps lubricate the throat and reduce the frequency of coughing.
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Spicy, greasy, and overheated foods can irritate the throat and cause coughing. Choose mild and gentle foods as much as possible.
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Tobacco and alcohol strongly irritate the throat. Quitting smoking and alcohol are important measures to protect throat health.
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Regular health examinations can detect potential problems early and allow timely intervention.
I hope this information is helpful to you. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible to identify the specific cause and receive targeted treatment. Health is our most precious asset, and it is particularly important to take care of our own and our family's health.
