Throat Irritations

The throat serves many purposes -- allowing us to swallow food and liquid and saliva, allowing us to speak, and allowing us to cough to expel irritants or excess mucous. The throat can be temporarily damaged by flu and colds, rhinitis, allergies and overstressing the voice. A sore or scratchy throat can be soothed with lozenges, saltwater gargles and liquids such as herbal teas. If throat symptoms persist beyond a week or worsen, consult a doctor.

Flu

• The flu is an infection of the lungs, nose and throat caused by the influenza virus. It spreads via droplets from infected people's coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, headache, coughing and a sore throat.

Rhinitis

• Rhinitis is a condition in which the mucous lining of the nose becomes inflamed and the mucous membrane becomes infected. It produces a discharge, blockage and swollen tissues. Rhinitis can be caused by over 200 different viruses, such as cold viruses, or by an allergy. Symptoms that may affect the throat are inflammation and a dry cough. Recovery from the viral illness relieves the rhinitis.

Allergies

• Allergies are common. If a person's immune system is oversensitive to certain substances or foods, it releases chemicals such as histamines to fight off the allergen. The bodily reaction may include swelling, itching and a host of other symptoms, including a sore or scratchy throat. Treating the allergy will relieve the throat symptoms.

Laryngitis

• Laryngitis is often the result of overstressing the muscles of the throat and larynx by talking too long and too loudly, or by yelling at a concert or sporting event. It can also be one symptom of a cold. It may result in temporary loss of the voice or hoarseness. Other symptoms may include a dry or sore throat, coughing, and trouble swallowing. Resting the voice and drinking soothing liquids will help.