Itchy throat can be caused by a number of things. What to know about itchy throat causes, treatments, and related symptoms.
Possible causes:
- Allergic rhinitis
- Food allergies
- Drug side effects and allergies
- Bacterial and viral infections
- Dehydration
- Acid reflux
- Home remedies
- Prevention
- Contacting a doctor
Home remedies such as lozenges and honey may help. It is often possible to manage an itchy throat at home. However, if itchiness persists or keeps coming back, it is best to contact a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and advice on any medical treatments.
Allergic rhinitis or hay fever, is a common cause of an itchy throat. Allergic rhinitis happens when the body overreacts to an otherwise harmless substance, releasing a chemical called histamine that causes these overreactions.
Common triggers include:
- pollen
- dander
- dust
- irritants such as cigarette smoke or exhaust fumes
Other symptoms of allergic rhinitis can include:
- itchy eyes, skin, or mouth
- runny or stuffy nose
- sneezing
- fatigue, possibly due to reduced sleep
Food allergies:
Allergic reactions to food happen when the body reacts to certain foods as if they were going to harm be harmful.
Reactions generally develop within minutes or a few hours after consuming the trigger food. Anaphylaxis, a life threatening reaction, may develop within seconds or minutes. It is a medical emergency. Possible symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- breathing difficulties
- swelling of the tongue
- dizziness
- hives or a rash
Any food can cause an allergic reaction. Some foods commonly responsible for food allergies include:
- peanuts
- tree nuts
- eggs
- milk
- dairy
- fish and shellfish
- wheat
- sesame
- soy
Drug side effects and allergies:
Some medications can cause an itchy throat as a side effect. Seek immediate medical help if symptoms of an allergic reaction develop, after taking medication.
These can include:
- throat tightness
- breathing difficulties
- wheezing
- coughing
- rash
Bacterial and viral infections:
Infections such as strep throat and tonsillitis can cause a sore throat, which may feel itchy. Both viruses such as the common cold or the flu virus can cause an itchy throat. Other symptoms can depend on the type of infection, but may include:
- coughing
- fever
- painful swallowing
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in. It is common during hot weather, after exercise, or during illness.
Dehydration can cause:
- a dry mouth, which may cause the throat to feel itchy
- increased thirst
- decreased urine output
- weakness
Acid reflux:
Some people with acid reflux experience throat problems. Acid reflux happens when stomach acid backs up from the stomach into the oesophagus.
Acid reflux can cause a burning feeling in the throat. The throat may also feel itchy.
Other symptoms of acid reflux can include:
- frequent throat clearing
- coughing
- regurgitation into the mouth
Home remedies for an itchy throat:
Remedies for an itchy throat can vary based on the cause. While some causes may require medical treatments, home remedies may also help.
Home remedies to soothe an itchy or sore throat include:
- a spoonful of honey to coat the throat
- drinking plenty of water
- salt water gargles
- lozenges
Please note that lozenges and salt water gargles are not suitable for children.
Preventing an itchy throat:
Depending on the cause, it may not always be possible to prevent an itchy throat. However, steps that may help include:
- avoiding smoking
- drinking plenty of water
- washing hands regularly to help reduce the risk of infection
- avoiding exposure to any known allergens
When to contact a doctor:
It is best to contact a doctor if a person regularly has an itchy throat or if the itchiness is constant and does not respond to home remedies.
People should see a doctor immediately in the event of an itchy throat being accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
- trouble breathing
- wheezing
- hives
- facial swelling
- a severe sore throat
- fever
- difficulty swallowing
Any of the above situations may require immediate medical care or management of serious allergies.
Summary:
Some causes of an itchy throat include allergic rhinitis, food allergies, drug reactions and allergies, viral and bacterial infections, dehydration, and acid reflux.
Treatment for an itchy throat can depend on the underlying cause. Home remedies that may help include gargling with salt water, taking honey, sucking on lozenges, and drinking plenty of water.
Contact a doctor if throat itchiness keeps coming back or does not improve with home remedies.
Seek immediate medical help if symptoms of an allergic reaction develop. These can include itchiness, tongue swelling, dizziness, breathing problems, wheezing, coughing, and a rash.
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