<P> When the environment is dry especially in winter, it can create a sensation of dryness and a scratchy feeling in the throat . This is most commonly observed in the morning . Other individuals who also develop throat irritation are those breathing through their mouth because of a congested nose . Environmental pollution is also a common cause of throat irritation . In fact, indoor pollution because of tobacco smoke used to be a common cause of throat irritation . Other items known to induce throat irritation include alcohol, spicy or hot foods and smokeless tobacco . </P> <P> This affliction is a common cause of throat irritation . Normally the stomach produces acid in the stomach which is neutralized in the small intestine . To prevent acid from flowing backwards, the lower part of the swallowing tube (esophagus) has a valve which closes after food passes through . In some individuals, this valve becomes incompetent and acid goes up into the esophagus . Reflux episodes often occur at night and one may develop a bitter taste in the mouth . The throat can be severely irritated when acid touches the vocal cords and can lead to spasms of coughing . To prevent throat irritation from reflux, one should lose weight, stop smoking, avoid coffee beverages and sleep with the head elevated . </P> <P> The diagnosis of a throat irritation include a physical exam and throat culture . </P> <P> The majority of cases of throat irritation usually go away without any treatment . There is no real treatment for throat irritation from a virus . If you have difficulty swallowing then one should drink liquids, suck on lozenges, ice chips or mix salt with warm water to gargle . Bacterial infections generally require antibiotics . Home remedies for throat irritation include gargling with warm water twice a day, sipping honey and lemon mixture or sucking on medicated lozenges . If the cause is dry air, then one should humidify the home . Since smoke irritates the throat, stop smoking and avoid all fumes from chemicals, paints and volatile liquids . Rest your voice if you have been screaming or singing . If you have pharyngitis, avoid infecting others by covering your mouth when coughing and wear a mask . </P>

Why is my throat irritated all the time