“Your throat is sensitive, and it doesn’t take much to irritate it,” says Ehsan Ali, MD, an internal medicine physician in Beverly Hills, California.
Here are some typical culprits.
Infections
Bacterial infections can also cause throat discomfort. Streptococcal throat — strep throat, for short — is caused by group A Streptococcus, and it’s highly contagious. While symptoms may go away on their own, you will need antibiotics to prevent possible long-term complications.
Allergies
Your throat may be the first to inform you when allergy season is here. The timing of allergy season depends on where you live, but in the United States, spring and fall tend to be peak.
“In many cases, allergies are the root cause of irritation in the upper airway,” explains Geoffrey Trenkle, DO, an otolaryngologist (ENT) in Los Angeles. “Allergens trigger inflammation and postnasal drip, which leads to that familiar itch.” With postnasal drip, excess mucus from the nose and sinuses drips down the throat, causing irritation.
Ragweed pollen is a common outdoor allergen, but allergens exist indoors too. Dust mites, pet dander, and mold can also trigger allergy symptoms, including throat irritation, Dr. Trenkle says.
Some people have oral allergy syndrome, a mild allergy triggered by eating certain raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts, that can cause their throats to itch.
Environmental Factors
Weather can also be a factor. “Hot, humid weather or dry air can result in itchy throat as the dry air can dehydrate the throat, leading to discomfort,” says Vijaya Tirunahari, MD, a pulmonologist in Edison, New Jersey. Dry air doesn’t just happen outside — indoor air can be dry, too, Ali says.
Lifestyle Factors
It’s very possible to develop an irritated throat from overuse, Trenkle says. This is especially common in performers, teachers, or public speakers, he adds. Generally, talking for prolonged periods or even raising your voice and yelling can lead to discomfort, Ali says.
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