An itchy throat can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, dry air, irritation, digestive issues, and bacterial or viral infections. This symptom is frequently bothersome and uncomfortable. To relieve symptoms, use over-the-counter medications or home remedies.
Home Remedies To Overcome Itchy Throat
To relieve an itchy throat, try the following simple remedies:
Gargle with salt water
Gargling with salt water is one of the most effective home remedies for soothing an itchy or irritated throat. Simply mix warm water and salt, and gargle with the salt water solution to clear the throat of mucus or other irritating substances.
Furthermore, salt water has mild antiseptic properties that aid in reducing bacterial overgrowth in the throat.
Taking cough medications or lozenges
Some cough medications and lozenges contain menthol or other ingredients that can give the throat a cooling sensation. This cold sensation provides temporary relief from discomfort.
Please keep in mind that the effects of menthol in cough medications or lozenges can vary from person to person. Long-term or excessive use is not recommended because it can make the throat more sensitive and irritated.
Also read: Various Ways To Relieve Sore Throat
Hot tea or broth
Consuming enough fluids can help you stay hydrated, especially if your throat is itchy or irritated. In addition to water, warm beverages such as herbal teas, broths, or warm water with lemon and honey can soothe the throat.
The warm temperature can help relieve discomfort, keep mucus liquid, and prevent irritation from worsening.
Honey
Honey contains antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. This is why honey is a popular treatment for throat irritation and itchiness. Honey's antimicrobial properties help fight throat infections and bacteria.
Please keep in mind that children under one year old should not consume honey because there is a risk of botulism. Honey contains Clostridium botulinum bacteria spores, which can cause botulism, a serious neurological illness that is especially dangerous in infants with developing immune systems.
To relieve an itchy throat, dissolve 1 teaspoon of honey in warm water or tea and drink it while still warm.
Also read: Is It True That Drinking Honey Can Relieve Cough?
Cold drinks
The soothing effect of a cold drink can alleviate pain or itching in the throat. However, for some people, cold temperatures can aggravate throat irritation. To avoid discomfort, it is best not to consume excessive amounts of cold foods or beverages.
A scratchy throat is usually not cause for concern, but if the itching worsens or you experience other symptoms such as difficulty breathing and swallowing, fever, dizziness, or nausea, you should consult a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.
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- dr. Monica Salim
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Jenna Fletcher (2023). Everything you need to know about an itchy throat. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317066#_noHeaderPrefixedContent
WebMD (2022). Remedies for an Itchy Throat. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/allergies/remedies-for-itchy-throat
Cleveland Clinic (2023). Honey for Your Sore Throat and Cough. Available from: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/honey-for-sore-throat-and-cough
NHS UK (2022). Botulism. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/botulism/