Itchy Throat and Cough

Itchy throat or a sensation of itchiness or irritation is a symptom of throat infection. The itchiness often evokes a desire to cough and hence, itchy throat with cough are experienced simultaneously. These symptoms are often accompanied by other symptoms like runny nose and headache. However, viral or bacterial throat infection is not the only cause for an itchy throat. There are several other causes that can lead to these symptoms. Let us take a look at them in detail.

Causes of Itchy Throat and Cough

A protective sticky fluid covers the throat in order to protect it against foreign irritants. Sometimes due to certain reasons like the drying of the mucus or inflammation, the nerves present in the throat get exposed and irritated. This results in itchy throat followed by dry cough. The following are the potential causes for the same.

Common cold
Common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. As the name suggests, this condition is commonly found in people of all age groups, all over the world. Apart from itchy throat and cough, runny nose and sneezing are the other symptoms of common cold.

Influenza (flu)
Influenza and common cold are often confused with each other and used interchangeably, because of their common signs and symptoms. But, there is a difference between cold and flu. Although itchy throat is also observed in the case of flu, the cough is non-mucus producing. i.e., dry cough is observed.

Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria. It is a contagious respiratory disorder. Extreme coughing is a symptom of tuberculosis which is preceded by itchiness of throat.

Exposure to Smoke / Industrial Pollutants
Air pollution is one of the major causes of cough and itchy throat today. Exposure to vehicle smoke, dust, industrial pollutants and gases lead to itchiness or irritation in the throat. If it continues for a long time, it can even result in chronic cough or bronchitis.

Allergy
Allergy is yet another common cause of this condition. An allergic reaction to any specific eatables, smoke, duet or irritant can lead to these symptoms. Allergies to pollen, mites and molds are quite common. Similarly, food allergies can also cause itchiness in the throat.

Dry throat, shouting or singing loudly for a longer period can also cause itchy throat. It is also one of the many symptoms of diseases like sinusitis or bronchitis. In most of the cases, itchiness in the throat is caused due to minor disorders and hence, can be treated with the help of home remedies. Following is brief information on the most effective remedies for the same.

Itchy Throat and Cough Remedies

Cough and throat infection caused due to common cold or flu can be treated with the help of cough syrups and medication. In case of tuberculosis and other respiratory diseases, antibiotics are used. If the person is allergic to certain foods, it is better to avoid them completely. Antihistamines can also be used for treating allergies. Over-the-counter cough lozenges or sprays can also be helpful in treating itchy throat with cough caused due to minor conditions.

On the other hand, there are several home remedies to cure itchy throat and cough. Gargling with lukewarm saltwater is the best home remedy, which has been used since a long time. Ginger tea or white tea with ginger; or a mixture of lemon and honey in lukewarm water are other effective itchy throat remedies. Also, the age-old chicken soup can also be equally effective in providing relief. Although these treatment methods and home remedies are effective, if the symptoms persist for a long time, it is better to consult the doctor.

Itchy throat and cough is rarely a sign of any serious medical condition, but it is always better to try to prevent it as much as possible. The simplest thing to remember is that a healthy diet helps in improving the immune system of the body, which in turn, prevents several diseases and disorders. Take care!