Doctor Chu Thi Ha, from the Respiratory Unit at the District 7 General Clinic, Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM, explains that these symptoms are considered acute if they last for about 3 weeks and chronic if they persist for 8 weeks. Here are some common causes.

Acute causes

Acute respiratory illnesses: The common cold, flu, sore throat, and laryngitis can cause a dry cough and itchy throat. With a cold or mild sore throat, the mucous membrane in the throat can swell slightly, leading to irritation and itching. The body's natural reflex is to initiate a dry cough to soothe this discomfort. A dry, itchy throat due to a cold or mild sore throat may be accompanied by other symptoms such as a runny nose, mild sneezing, and fatigue.

Rhinitis and sinusitis: Nasal discharge dripping down the throat can irritate the throat area and cause coughing.

Environmental factors: Temperature changes and dry, cold air can reduce the moisture of the protective mucous layer, creating a dry, scratchy throat. Even without inflammation, a dry cough can occur to soothe the irritated throat. This is common in winter or when spending extended periods in air-conditioned rooms without drinking enough water.

Inhaling smoke or dust: Air pollution and regular exposure to smoke or fine dust can irritate the upper respiratory tract. Inhaling these substances can cause a dry, itchy throat and minor damage, triggering a dry cough.

Allergies: The body can overreact when the immune system encounters allergens such as food, chemicals, pet dander, or pollen. Allergies can trigger symptoms like a dry, itchy cough, sneezing, watery eyes, itchy ears, skin rashes, and difficulty breathing, varying in intensity depending on the individual's sensitivity. Some severe allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition.

Frequent speaking: Shouting or talking excessively can cause temporary laryngitis.

For acute conditions, doctors usually treat the symptoms and advise avoiding irritants. Most illnesses are self-limiting and resolve within 1-2 weeks with proper treatment and care.

Doctor Ha examining a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Ha examining a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Chronic causes

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Acid reflux from the stomach into the throat can cause chronic inflammation and irritation, leading to an itchy throat and cough. The cough typically starts with an itchy throat, followed by a dry cough. It often occurs at night, shortly after lying down, or after eating. Other symptoms of GERD include heartburn, chest burning, a lump in the throat, a bitter taste in the mouth, or morning hoarseness.

Cough-variant asthma: This type of asthma manifests only as a persistent dry cough, especially at night or during exertion, without wheezing, shortness of breath, or whistling sounds.

Side effects of medication: A persistent dry cough can be a side effect of ACE inhibitors, a class of drugs used to treat high blood pressure. Patients experiencing this should inform their cardiologist to adjust their medication.

Pneumonia, often seen in pulmonary tuberculosis: The disease progresses slowly, causing a prolonged dry cough or persistent cough after a respiratory infection.

Respiratory tract tumors (laryngeal or lung cancer): This is less common but should be ruled out if the cough is prolonged, unresponsive to treatment, or accompanied by hoarseness, weight loss, or coughing up blood.

Individuals experiencing a dry cough and itchy throat should seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Doctors may recommend tests for an accurate diagnosis and develop a suitable treatment plan. In addition to medication, doctors may advise gargling or rinsing the throat with saline solution to reduce inflammation, keeping the neck warm in cold weather, and avoiding smoke, dust, or allergens.

Thao Nhi