Itchy Throat

What is an itchy throat?

An itchy throat is a sensation that feels scratchy, tickly or like you need to cough a lot. It’s your body’s way of telling you something’s bothering the lining of your throat. Just like a cough helps keep harmful things out, a tickle in your throat helps clear it.

An itchy or scratchy throat can be mild and temporary — like when you’re thirsty or have seasonal allergies. But it can also be stubborn and hang around for a while, possibly for weeks or even years.

Even though it’s often mild, itching inside your throat can affect your ability to speak, swallow or sleep comfortably. If it sticks around for a long time, you may need to see your healthcare provider. They can help rule out more serious causes and, if necessary, start you on treatment.

Why is my throat itchy?

Lots of things can make your throat feel itchy. Here are the more common causes:

• Allergies: Your throat can react to things like pollen, dust, mold, pet dander and certain foods. Your body releases chemicals called histamines, which can cause that tickly, itchy feeling.
• Infections: Viruses like the common cold, flu or COVID-19 can start with an itchy throat. Bacterial infections like strep throat can cause it, too. Itchy throat can last for weeks after an infection.
• Irritants: Smoke, cleaning products, pollution or strong fragrances can bother your throat and make it itch.
• Dry air or dehydration: If the air is too dry or you’re not drinking enough fluids, your throat can dry out and feel scratchy.
• Acid reflux: Stomach acid can travel up your throat, causing irritation and a tickly sensation. It’s called “silent reflux” when this happens without heartburn.
• Medications: Certain drugs, like ACE inhibitors for blood pressure, can make your throat itchy.

Even though an itchy throat is usually harmless, it can be frustrating. Paying attention to what triggers it — like foods, allergens or dry air — can help you feel better faster.

How to get rid of an itchy throat

An itchy throat can be uncomfortable. But the good news is that there are lots of ways to treat it. You can try home remedies or over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

Itchy throat home remedies

You don’t even have to leave your house to relieve an itchy throat. Remedies you can try include:

• Staying hydrated: Drink plenty of water or herbal tea to keep your throat moist. This can also help flush things out that bother it.
• Honey: A spoonful of honey (or warm tea with honey) can coat your throat and calm irritation. (Don’t give honey to babies younger than 1 year old due to the risk of infant botulism.)
• Saltwater gargle: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water. Gargle several times a day to reduce swelling and clear mucus.
• Hard candy: Sucking on hard candy can soothe your throat and keep it moist. Menthol or mild numbing lozenges may also help.
• Humidifier or steam: Running a humidifier or taking a hot, steamy shower can ease irritation from dry air.

Itchy throat medicines

Sometimes, an over-the-counter (OTC) medication is the best way to soothe a scratchy throat. Options include:

• OTC allergy medicine: Antihistamines can reduce itchiness caused by allergies. Types you can try include diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), cetirizine (Zyrtec®) and fexofenadine (Allegra®).
• Nasal sprays or decongestants: Saline sprays or OTC nasal decongestants help reduce the postnasal drip that can irritate your throat.
• Pain relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Advil®) can ease soreness that comes with an irritated throat.

What are the possible complications or risks of not treating it?

An itchy throat is often minor. But letting it linger — especially if an infection or severe allergies caused it — can lead to bigger problems. These include:

• Infections can spread: If a bacterial infection like strep throat is causing your itchy throat, you need antibiotics. If you don’t treat it, it can lead to more serious infections.
• Allergies can worsen: Repeated or severe exposure to allergens can increase your risk of a serious reaction, like anaphylaxis.
• Continuing discomfort: Untreated throat irritation can stick around for a long time. This can make it harder to talk, swallow or sleep comfortably.
• Problems from postnasal drip: If mucus keeps dripping down your throat, it can worsen coughs. It can also cause sore throats or even trigger sinus infections.

How can an itchy throat be prevented?

You can’t always stop an itchy throat from happening. But there are many ways to reduce your chances. These include:

• Avoiding allergens and triggers: Steer clear of things like smoke, pollen or cleaning products that bother your throat.
• Protecting your throat: Wear a mask in dusty or smoky areas. Also, wash your hands often to avoid infections.
• Resting your voice: Avoid talking, singing or shouting excessively to give your throat time to heal.
• Eating hydrating, non-irritating foods: Eat foods like soups, fruits and vegetables to keep your throat moist. Avoid overly spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine if they bother your throat.
• Managing seasonal allergies: During high-pollen season, keep windows closed and shower after being outdoors. Consider using OTC allergy medicines if recommended.

When should I see a doctor for an itchy throat?

It’s important to see your healthcare provider if:

• Your itchy throat doesn’t improve after about a week
• Your itchy throat comes back often or is severe
• You have new symptoms, like fever, runny nose or swelling
• You have a history of serious allergic reactions
• Your throat feels tight, you have trouble swallowing or you start wheezing

How long does an itchy throat typically last?

Mild cases usually get better within a few days to a week. If it’s from a virus, it may last five to seven days.

If the itch keeps coming back, allergies or dry air may be to blame. It may last weeks or months if you don’t seek treatment.