5 ways to reduce itchy throat due to irritation

An itchy throat can be caused by many reasons such as infection, allergies or irritation from environmental agents such as pollen, smoke, dust… An itchy throat is often accompanied by dryness, pain, and sore throat. Symptoms may go away on their own after a week or last for more than 2-3 weeks. At this time, the patient needs to see a doctor to check the cause and receive timely treatment.

The goal of treating an itchy throat is to reduce discomfort, control pain in the affected area, and prevent serious infection. Some of the ways below help reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat and reduce itching.

Cough candy

Cough lozenges made from honey, mint or other herbs help relieve itching or sore throat. You should choose hard candy to prolong the chewing time. Sweet candy also helps soothe an itchy throat because it increases saliva production, moisturizing the affected area. Some candies made from ginger, kumquat, and honey essences also help reduce inflammation and cough.

Hot tea

Drinking enough fluids can keep mucous membranes clear, preventing the buildup of phlegm, an unpleasant irritant in the throat. The warm temperature soothes the lower throat, reducing itching. Patients can sip warm drinks in the evening to reduce throat irritation, while staying hydrated to help stabilize the body’s activities. If you drink tea, choose green tea in the morning and herbal tea in the evening to avoid insomnia.

Honey

Honey has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help reduce inflammation. When taken orally, honey creates a protective layer on the surface of the throat mucosa, soothing irritated tissues, reducing itching, burning and sore throat. Honey also provides moisture that helps soften and reduce inflammation. Patients should choose pure honey to increase effectiveness, drink two spoons a day in the morning and evening.

Humidifier

If you have an itchy throat due to dry air or allergies, a humidifier can relieve the condition. Increased humidity in the air soothes the throat and prevents mucus from drying out, leading to irritation and itching. You can also take a hot shower to take advantage of the steam if your home doesn’t have a humidifier.

Gargle with salt water

Dilute salt water has a higher osmotic pressure than the fluid in the body’s cells. When rinsing your mouth and throat with salt water, the liquid in the cells will be sucked to the surface, pulling irritants such as dirt, viruses or bacteria out. Gargling with salt water also helps reduce dryness in the throat, reduces itching, and prevents sore throats. Warmth can soothe throat irritation and thin mucus buildup.

Patients should buy pre-mixed physiological saline at pharmacies or can mix their own at a ratio of 1/2 teaspoon of salt to 240 ml of warm water. Gargle twice daily.

Persistent itchy throat with burning pain and difficulty swallowing may be caused by strep throat or other serious ear, nose and throat condition. Patients should see a doctor for examination and appropriate treatment to prevent complications.