Health Info > Coughs Published on : December 15, 2024

How to relieve itchy throat at night: Home remedies

Written by Editorial staff writer at Hola Medically reviewed by Dr Gosagan Gopalakrishnan, BSc (Hons), MBChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, FRACGP

Waking up with an itchy throat at night is like encountering a surprise alarm clock that only emits the annoying tune of discomfort! Various factors like allergies, dry air, or other issues can contribute to that annoying feeling, impacting your sleep. Fortunately, many easy and powerful home remedies may calm your throat and guide you back to restful sleep. Let’s explore some natural home treatments to soothe your throat and reclaim those restful nights.

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What triggers an itchy throat?

An itchy throat can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Allergies: Common allergens such as pollen, dust, pet hair, and mould can lead to an itchy throat when breathed in, as the immune system produces histamines in response to these substances.
Dry air: Low humidity levels, particularly during winter months, can dry out the throat, resulting in itchiness and irritation.
Viral infections: Illnesses caused by viruses, such as colds and the flu, can irritate the throat, which may be one of the first symptoms of respiratory infection.
Postnasal drip: Mucus that drains down the back of the throat due to sinus infections, allergies, or colds can cause throat irritation and itchiness.
Irritants: Exposure to smoke, pollution, strong scents, or chemicals can irritate the throat and result in itchiness.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Acid reflux can irritate the throat, causing itchiness and discomfort, especially when reclining.
Food sensitivities: Certain foods or food allergies (like peanuts, shellfish, or some fruits) may lead to throat itching and other allergic reactions.
Medications: Some medications can lead to dry mouth and throat, which can trigger itchiness.

Home remedies for itchy throat

Here are several effective home remedies to alleviate an itchy throat:

Saltwater: Gargling with warm salt water can ease irritation, decrease swelling, and eliminate irritants that cause the itch. Combine 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargle for 15–30 seconds.
Honey: Honey is naturally soothing and has antibacterial properties. You can take a teaspoon of honey or mix it into warm tea to coat the throat and alleviate itchiness. (Not suitable for children under 1 year.)
Herbal tea: Warm herbal teas such as chamomile, ginger, or peppermint have anti-inflammatory and calming effects that can help soothe an itchy throat.
Stay hydrated: Be sure to drink adequate amounts of water to maintain throat hydration and help eliminate allergens or irritants.
Humidifier: Using a humidifier can introduce moisture into the air, which may relieve a dry, itchy throat, particularly in low-humidity settings.
Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial characteristics that could help lessen throat irritation. Consider sipping ginger tea or chewing a small piece of raw ginger.
Broths and soups: Warm, clear broths and soups may provide comfort and support throat hydration while minimising itchiness.

Preventive measures

Here are some preventive strategies to help avoid an itchy throat:

Stay hydrated: Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day to keep your throat and mucus membranes well-moistened, which may help minimise irritation.
Use a humidifier: Introducing moisture into the air, particularly in arid conditions or during the winter season, may help avoid throat dryness and itchiness.
Avoid allergens: If you suffer from allergies, seek to lower exposure to known allergens like pollen, dust, pet dander, and mould. Regularly cleaning your home can help lessen the presence of these allergens.
Wash hands regularly: Maintaining proper hand hygiene can help reduce the risk of colds and respiratory infections, which may contribute to an itchy throat.
Avoid irritants: Try to limit your exposure to smoke, strong fragrances, and chemical vapours, as these can irritate your throat and respiratory pathways.
Practice good oral hygiene: Regularly brushing your teeth and maintaining oral cleanliness can help prevent throat irritation caused by bacteria buildup.
Manage acid reflux: If you suffer from GERD, it's best to avoid spicy, acidic, and high-fat foods, as they can trigger reflux and irritate your throat.
Limit cold or sugary beverages: Consuming cold or sugary drinks can sometimes lead to throat irritation. Instead, choose warm and soothing beverages.
Use an allergy-proof pillow and mattress covers: To try and reduce exposure to dust mites, which can provoke allergies, consider using allergy-proof covers on pillows and mattresses while sleeping.
Strengthen your immune system: Maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins, engaging in regular physical activity, and ensuring sufficient sleep can enhance immunity, making you less vulnerable to infections that can lead to an itchy throat.

When to seek a doctor’s appointment?

If your throat remains itchy for a few days, it’s wise to consult a doctor. This is particularly important if you’re also experiencing symptoms such as fever, trouble swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, or a persistent cough. If home remedies aren’t alleviating the itchiness or if it seems to worsen, this could indicate an underlying issue, such as a bacterial infection, allergies, or acid reflux. Additionally, if you notice hoarseness, unexpected weight loss, or a sore throat that doesn’t improve, it’s important to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. These symptoms can sometimes indicate more serious conditions that require thorough evaluation and care.

Opting for telehealth

Choosing telehealth can be a practical option if you have a persistent itchy throat that isn’t severe but is causing discomfort. Telehealth enables you to connect with a healthcare provider from the comfort of your home, allowing you to talk about your symptoms, receive recommendations for over-the-counter treatments, or obtain a prescription if needed. Addressing the underlying causes helps reduce symptoms and improve overall comfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare professional for a more comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan is advisable. Telehealth is also advantageous for follow-up consultations if you’ve previously visited a doctor for similar issues. If you're experiencing an itchy throat accompanied by breathing difficulties, a high fever, or any other serious symptoms, it's best to schedule an in-person appointment. In conclusion, an irritated throat at night doesn’t have to disturb your rest or convert your dreams into nightmares. With these natural remedies in your toolkit, you can handle that bothersome irritation and fall into a restful sleep. From sipping herbal teas to utilising a humidifier, there are numerous home treatments to keep your throat happy and your nights peaceful. So, breathe deeply, try these remedies, and bid farewell to sleepless nights—because you deserve sweet dreams, not scratchy throats!

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