Causes of Dry Throat: Beware of Symptoms of Internal Heat and Tips to Effectively Overcome It

Kapanlagi.com - Have you ever woken up feeling like something is stuck in your throat? The sensation of a dry and itchy throat can often be uncomfortable when swallowing or speaking. A dry throat can be a signal from your body that something is not right inside. But what actually causes a dry throat?

According to Dr. Breanne Schiffer, as reported by Healthcare Utah, a dry throat often causes a rough sensation that makes it feel uncomfortable. This condition generally occurs due to the body being poorly hydrated, resulting in a dry and uncomfortable throat.

1. What Is a Dry Throat and Why Does It Happen?

Illustration of a dry throat. (c) Tharakorn/Depositphotos.com

In simple terms, a dry throat is a condition where the back of the throat feels rough, itchy, or uncomfortable due to a lack of moisture. In the medical world, this is usually related to dehydration, exposure to dry air, or mild irritation of the throat lining.

However, from a more holistic perspective, such as in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this condition can be associated with an imbalance of hot and cold elements in the body.

According to Me and Qi, Traditional Chinese Medicine interprets a dry throat as a sign of imbalance occurring within the body. It is not just a matter of fluid deficiency, but it can also be the root cause of the body lacking Yin energy or a dry condition affecting the skin.

The concept of internal heatiness describes a condition where the body is too 'hot' due to factors like food, stress, or an unbalanced lifestyle. When the body experiences heatiness, natural moisture decreases, and areas such as the mouth and throat start to feel dry. That is why elders often recommend drinking coconut water or pear juice when the throat begins to feel itchy, as it is believed to help reduce internal heat.

2. Causes of a Dry Throat You Need to Know

Illustration of a dry throat. (c) IgorVetushko/Depositphotos.com

Many things can cause a dry throat. Whether it's factors from outside the body or from within. Here are some common causes that are important to know.

a. Dehydration

Dehydration is the most common cause of a dry throat. When the body lacks fluids, saliva production decreases, even though saliva functions to maintain natural moisture in the oral cavity and throat. If you rarely drink plain water or often consume caffeinated beverages, the risk of experiencing a dry throat will increase.

b. Dry Air

Activities in air-conditioned rooms or sleeping with a fan blowing directly towards your face can cause the surrounding air to become very dry. As a result, the upper respiratory tract, including the throat, also loses moisture.

c. Air Pollution Smoke

Smoke from air pollution contains particles that can irritate the throat walls. This not only makes the throat feel dry but can also lead to a prolonged dry cough.

d. Respiratory Infections

Colds, flu, and throat infections such as tonsillitis or pharyngitis can cause a dry and itchy feeling in the throat. They are usually accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, cough, and pain when swallowing.

e. Heat-Inducing Foods

Consuming fried, spicy, or high-fat foods in excessive amounts is believed to be one of the causes of internal heat. The effects can be felt in the throat, which suddenly becomes dry, sore, or feels burnt.

f. Allergies and Irritation

Dust, pollen, or pet dander can be allergens that cause a dry and itchy throat. Even perfumes or household cleaning chemicals can trigger similar irritation.

g. Medication Side Effects

Some types of medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, or decongestants can cause dryness in the mouth and throat as a side effect. This condition is usually temporary but can be quite bothersome.

h. Stress and Fatigue

Who would have thought that emotional stress or physical fatigue can also affect the immune system and body balance, including saliva production? A tired and stressed body is more susceptible to minor health issues. One of these is a dry throat, which should not be taken lightly.

3. The Relationship Between a Dry Throat and Internal Heat

Illustration of a dry throat. (c) IgorVetushko/Depositphotos.com

In Indonesia, the term 'internal heat' is already very familiar and is used to describe a body condition that feels 'unwell', usually accompanied by symptoms such as a dry throat, canker sores, chapped lips, and a bitter taste in the mouth. Although it does not have a precise medical definition, this concept is actually very similar to the term heatiness in traditional Chinese medicine.
In this concept, excessive internal heat can occur due to:

- Consumption of spicy, oily, and fried foods

- Lack of sleep

- Excessive stress

- Insufficient intake of fresh fluids

When the condition of internal heat arises, one of the body parts most affected is the throat. Natural mucus production decreases, the throat lining dries out, and eventually discomfort arises. This is why when you experience fatigue and then eat instant noodles late at night, the next morning you can immediately feel a scratchy or itchy throat.

4. How to Overcome a Dry Throat Due to Heat

After understanding the causes of a dry throat, it's time to find out various effective solutions to address a dry throat due to internal heat. What are they?

Increase Water Intake

Water is not just a thirst quencher, but also an important element in maintaining the body's moisture from within. When you don't drink enough, saliva production decreases drastically, which can lead to a very dry mouth and throat.

Make sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water every day. If you are experiencing a dry throat, try drinking warm water which can help soothe irritation and provide a calming sensation in the throat area.

Consume Cooling Foods and Beverages

Fruits like pears, watermelon, cucumber, and lime have high water content and cooling properties. Consuming them regularly can help reduce internal heat and moisturize the respiratory tract.

Pear juice, for instance, contains high antioxidants and fiber that can reduce inflammation and improve body hydration. Herbal teas such as chamomile, caffeine-free green tea, or boiled betel leaves are also good for soothing a hot and itchy throat.

Consume Herbal Drinks

Various causes of a dry throat can also be alleviated by regularly consuming herbal drinks. Moreover, there are now many ready-to-drink herbal beverages available, making them convenient and easy to carry anywhere. Don't forget to choose herbal drinks that contain high antioxidants that not only alleviate the symptoms of throat heat but also help boost the body's immunity.

Avoid Triggers of Throat Heat

Some foods like fried foods, spicy foods, high-sugar foods, and caffeinated or carbonated drinks can worsen throat heat conditions. Avoid excessive consumption of these foods, especially when you feel your throat starting to dry or itch.

Instead, consume boiled, steamed, or soupy foods that are easier to digest and do not burden the body's metabolism. Paying attention to your diet and the types of food is an important step to prevent recurring dry throat.

Use a Humidifier

If you often find yourself in air-conditioned rooms or environments with low humidity, it is advisable to use a humidifier. This device can maintain the humidity of the air indoors, thus preventing dry throat, especially at night while sleeping.

Choose a humidifier with additional features like a calming aromatherapy diffuser, such as peppermint or eucalyptus, for a dual effect, which is more humid air and easier breathing.

Manage Stress and Get Enough Rest

Stress can cause imbalances in the body, including digestive disturbances and issues with the immune system. Both can worsen throat heat. Try engaging in activities that can calm the mind, such as yoga, meditation, leisurely walks in the morning, or simply enjoying time without gadgets. Sufficient and quality sleep also aids the body's natural recovery process and maintains the moisture of the mucosal tissues in the throat.

5. When to Be Cautious?

Although most cases of dry throat can improve on their own within a few days, there are certain conditions you need to be aware of. Consult a doctor immediately if you experience the following symptoms:

- Dry throat accompanied by high fever

- Severe pain when swallowing

- Hoarseness that does not improve within a week

- Coughing up blood or mucus that is discolored

- Difficulty breathing

These were some common causes of dry throat and the appropriate ways to address them. Although often considered a minor issue, a dry throat can be a signal from the body that there is an imbalance that needs to be addressed. By understanding the triggering factors and taking preventive measures, you can keep your throat healthy every day!

(kpl/wri)