Scratchy throat: Causes and relief options

Many of us have experienced a scratchy throat from time to time. Usually, it’s a short-lived tickle, but sometimes it can be more than a minor irritation, affecting some people’s concentration and the ability to drink, eat, speak or even sleep.

While usually not a serious symptom, a persistent scratchy throat may leave people confused as to the cause. It may also indicate an underlying issue.

Understanding possible causes and ways to help relieve throat irritation can make a difference by helping people stay informed. Read on to learn more about the common reasons behind a scratchy throat and share possible options that may help. 

In this article:

Possible causes of a scratchy throat

It’s important to understand the potential cause of an irritated throat before exploring treatment options. Here are some possible causes and factors to consider.

Acid reflux

Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may cause throat irritation. The acid in the stomach helps digest food. Acid reflux occurs when excess stomach acid flows upwards into the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. This acid can then “splash” on the vocal cords or throat, leading to irritation and throat clearing.

GERD is a chronic gastrointestinal condition characterized by the frequent regurgitation of gastric contents into the esophagus. It can cause irritation or itching of the throat lining, known as esophagitis. Health care providers like gastrointestinal (GI) specialists may prescribe or recommend omeprazole, pantoprazole and over-the-counter (OTC) famotidine to treat reflux and GERD.

Allergies

Allergies are a very common cause of scratchy or sore throats. When an allergen or foreign substance comes in contact with the body, the immune system releases histamines. This reaction triggers inflammation, which can present itself in various ways, including a scratchy throat.

Hay fever (or allergic rhinitis) tends to occur seasonally or year round and affects up to 60 million people in the U.S. per year. Along with congestion, a runny nose and sneezing, a scratchy throat is another possible allergy symptom. Postnasal drip  tends to be a common presenting symptom in patients who have a scratchy throat.

If someone suffers from hay fever and has experienced a scratchy throat after eating specific raw foods, they may be experiencing symptoms of oral allergy syndrome (also known as pollen food allergy syndrome). Raw fruits, tree nuts and vegetables can trigger this response, along with more serious reactions, including hives or trouble swallowing or breathing.

Dry air

Temperature and humidity play important roles in respiratory health. If the air is too dry or lacks moisture, it can exacerbate respiratory diseases and irritate the mucus membranes (or mucosa). Mucus acts as a protective barrier against pathogens. Dry air absorbs moisture from the body, causing the mucosa to dry out and become uncomfortable.

Air conditioning and heating can contribute to poor air quality and cause throat irritation. Heated air can cause nasal pain and inflammation, and spending a lot of time in cool or refrigerated environments can result in rhinitis and sore throat. However, a population-based study showed that both cold temperature and low humidity appear to independently increase the risk of sore throat.

Infections

A scratchy throat may be caused by a bacterial or viral infection and, in some cases, a fungal infection. The throat may feel sore, and the person may have difficulty swallowing. If someone has bacterial pharyngitis or strep throat, it may start feeling irritated or scratchy before progressing to a more severe sore throat.

The common cold often starts with a sore throat, along with coughing, sneezing, and a runny or stuffy nose. In a more severe infection like viral bronchitis, people may develop a sore throat with common chest cold symptoms like fatigue and body aches.

Medication side effects

Certain drugs can result in an irritated or sore throat as a side effect. Drug-induced esophagitis is the erosion of the esophagus lining by medication. If someone is regularly taking medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potassium chloride tablets or tetracycline antibiotics, they have a greater chance of developing this condition.

Occasionally, throat irritation or soreness might mean someone is allergic to their medication. The immune system might mistake a drug for a foreign invader or allergen. If a person has any worrying symptoms, such as trouble breathing or swelling of the throat, please call 911 or have someone take them to the nearest emergency room. It’s also important to talk with a health care provider first before stopping any prescribed drugs. They will be able to find a more suitable alternative.

Nasal drip

Nasal drip occurs when mucus from the nose trickles down the back of the throat and sinuses. It can cause persistent irritation, a scratchy sensation in the throat and a nagging cough that worsens at night. Allergies, seasonal changes and sinus infections can all cause this common condition. Consuming minty or spicy foods as well as beer and wine can also cause postnasal drip and throat irritation.

Support options for scratchy throat

There are many over-the-counter allergy medications and other options available to try at home, if directed by your health care provider.

Allergy testing

Allergy testing can determine what is causing someone’s symptoms from a board-certified allergist. People may also be sent for a rhinoscopy by an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor to rule out nasal polyps or a computed tomography (CT) scan to check for chronic sinusitis. If a health care provider suspects acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), they may send their patient for an endoscopy and pH monitoring.

At-home, non-medicated options

Options beyond OTC or prescription medications may include warm saltwater gargling and popsicles.  Someone can also try to use a humidifier or vaporizer to help keep the air they breathe from getting too dry.

A saline sinus rinse or nasal irrigation, like the NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit or the CVS Health Soft Tip Neti Pot Sinus Wash System, can help flush out allergens or irritants from the sinuses that may be causing postnasal drip.

Dietary adjustments

If there are foods that trigger an allergic response, it’s important to avoid those while recovering. It is also advised to skip foods that can cause acid reflux, like dairy, pickles, tomatoes and tomato-based foods. A person should also avoid alcohol, caffeine, and anything crunchy, hard or sharp, while they are experiencing throat discomfort.

So, what can people eat, instead? Consider choosing softer foods that are easy to swallow and digest. Eggs, jellies, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, pasta, puddings, stews, warm broths and yogurt are all soft foods people can try.

Hydration

Drinking enough water is vital in so many ways. Not only does it keep organs functioning and mucus membranes moist, but it also helps regulate body temperature, keeps joints lubricated, delivers nutrients to cells and helps improve overall well-being.

To help an irritated throat, try to limit dehydrating fluids like alcohol, coffee and soda. Instead, reach for herbal tea with lemon or room-temperature water.

Fluids not only rehydrate but may also help soothe a throat itch or tickle. Keep these fluids handy in a favorite travel cup or bottle to help ensure the body stays hydrated.

Over-the-counter support options

The good news is that when it comes to treating a scratchy throat, many over-the-counter (OTC) allergy treatments are available to help people feel better quickly.

Antihistamines work to help reduce symptoms associated with allergies that may cause throat irritation as well as symptoms like congestion, itchy eyes and sneezing.

Lozenges may also offer relief from throat irritation and help soothe a sore or scratchy throat. There are medicated options, such as Cepacol Extra Strength sore throat relief lozenges, or cough drops made with herbal ingredients, such as Ricola natural herb cough drops.

Prescription medications

In cases of severe throat inflammation, a health care provider may prescribe steroids to reduce swelling and pain in the throat. If a bacterial infection is the cause of a sore throat, antibiotics may be prescribed.

In any case, people should consult a health care provider first to determine the recommended treatment for their condition.

Addressing the causes of throat irritation

To help prevent an irritated throat caused by infections, people should regularly wash their hands to help stay healthy and prevent the spread of germs. Stay up to date on vaccines that can help protect people against getting respiratory infections, such as the COVID-19, flu, pneumococcal pneumonia and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), when eligible.

Avoiding allergens

People can do several things to help prevent an allergy-induced scratchy throat. If seasonal allergies are causing throat irritation, it's important to avoid indoor and outdoor allergens like dust mites, mold, pests (like cockroaches and rodents), pet hair and pollen.

Poor air quality in the car, home and office can contribute to seasonal allergy symptoms. To help combat this, keeping windows closed and running an air conditioner through recirculate mode can reduce the amount of outdoor allergens entering the space. Limiting time outdoors on days with high pollen counts is also a good idea.

If someone is allergic to allergens like dust mites or pet dander and cannot avoid coming into contact with these allergens, try vacuuming once or twice a week and regularly washing sheets on hot. It’s also a good idea to replace wall-to-wall carpets and heavy drapes that attract allergens and cannot be washed.

Maintaining humidity levels

If someone lives in a dry climate, consider investing in a humidifier that can increase the humidity in indoor spaces to 30 to 50 percent. This can help keep the throat comfortable.

Be mindful not to create an environment that is too moist. Dust mites and mold spores and dust mites thrive in humid conditions of over 70 to 80 percent.

When to see a health care provider

In most cases, a scratchy throat is not dangerous, even though it can be irritating and inconvenient.

It’s important to contact a health care provider for expert diagnosis and care if someone is experiencing severe symptoms like the following:

• Bloody mucus
• Difficulty breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Trouble swallowing
• Unexplained fever
• Wheezing

These symptoms may indicate more serious conditions that require emergency medical treatment. Call 911 in case of an emergency.

Finding relief and helping prevent a scratchy throat

Many of us have experienced an irritated, scratchy or sore throat. While it can be unpleasant, it’s usually only temporary.

Understanding the common causes, such as allergies, dry air, infections or other factors, can help people get to the bottom of the issue. Simple options like staying hydrated, eating softer foods or using over-the-counter products can often provide the relief people may need. However, if these options don’t work, talking to a health care provider may be the next best step.

Prevention is also key. By avoiding known allergens, keeping humidity levels in check and adopting a healthy lifestyle, people can help minimize the chances of throat irritation in the future.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.