I Keep Coughing and My Throat Is Itchy

Allergic rhinitis can cause sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, and mucus draining into the throat. House dust mite allergy may follow exposure in bedrooms or soft furnishings. A common cold can add a sore throat, congestion, tiredness, or a mild fever. Food allergy is more concerning when itching starts soon after eating and occurs with hives, lip or tongue swelling, wheezing, vomiting, or dizziness. Dry air, smoke, perfumes, and cleaning products can irritate the throat without causing an infection.

The symptom Itchy Throat page gives more detail on the sensation and associated symptoms. The pattern, timing, and breathing symptoms help distinguish possible causes.

Drink fluids, use warm drinks or throat soothing measures, and avoid smoke and strong fragrances. Wash hands if a cold is circulating, and reduce exposure to a suspected allergen when practical. A pharmacist can advise about Allergy Medication, especially if nasal allergy symptoms are prominent. Do not test a suspected food at home if a previous reaction caused swelling or breathing symptoms.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing, throat tightness, swelling of the lips or tongue, faintness, or a rapidly spreading allergic reaction. Arrange medical advice if the cough persists, repeatedly disrupts sleep, comes with fever or chest pain, or follows a suspected food exposure. Seek prompt care if you cannot swallow fluids.

Could this be allergic rhinitis, a cold, or an irritant? What exposures should I avoid? Do my symptoms need allergy assessment, and which treatment is suitable for me?