A cross of the human head, including the throat.
Itchy throat and cough can be an irritating combination of symptoms with a wide variety of causes. Often called a dry cough, this unpleasant condition can be a major symptom of an infection or allergic reaction. If these symptoms appear without additional problems, they may go away with home treatment or bed rest. Persistent cough and itchy throat can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious condition that requires medical attention.
Allergies often cause itchy throat and cough.
One of the most common causes of these symptoms is allergies. Polluted air, breathing in dust or pollen, or even a food allergy can cause the throat tissue to swell and become inflamed, leading to a dry cough. Other symptoms that accompany these allergy symptoms may include a runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing. Allergies are often successfully treated with over-the-counter antihistamine medications, but some severe cases may require prescription medications. Avoiding the source of the allergy is usually the best way to keep symptoms from coming back.
It may be necessary to obtain antibiotics from a doctor.
People with severe food allergies should be aware of the occurrence of itchy throat and cough. Since allergic reactions to food can constrict the airways and even lead to death, it is important to pay close attention to these symptoms. Take special care when eating new foods that show no evidence of allergens, such as nuts.
Cough and scratchy throat can be the first sign of a cold or upper respiratory infection. When the body is attacked by a virus or bacteria, it sets in motion a variety of defenses that help to beat the disease, but which cause symptoms of the common cold. Symptoms of a cold can usually be treated with cold medications, but many colds are viral in nature and cannot be treated with antibiotics. If heavy phlegm production occurs or symptoms last for more than a week, see a doctor for a more detailed diagnosis.
It may be important to stop smoking if you have a chronic cough, as this is likely to be the main cause.
Some smokers experience a scratchy throat and cough, caused by inflammation of the throat and lung tissue. This is a condition that can easily progress to more serious problems like cardiopulmonary disease, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis. If a chronic cough develops, it can be extremely important to stop smoking immediately and see a doctor to see if permanent damage has been done.
Drainage from the sinuses can cause a scratchy throat and cough.
In rare cases, persistent itchy throat and coughing can be signs of a serious illness such as tuberculosis. A bacterial infection, this condition was once a certain death sentence that can now be treated with antibiotics. An easily misunderstood disease, tuberculosis can be both an active infection and a chronic, progressive condition. If these symptoms occur after known or suspected exposure to tuberculosis, seek immediate medical attention.
