How to Get Rid of a Tickle in Your Throat
Have you ever had a tickle in your throat that just won’t go away? It can be annoying, uncomfortable, and even lead to coughing fits. A tickle in the throat is usually caused by post-nasal drip, irritants in the air, or even anxiety. But, there are a number of ways to get rid of this uncomfortable sensation. In this article, we’ll discuss some natural remedies, deep breathing exercises, avoidance of triggers, throat sprays, steam therapy, relaxation techniques, and lozenges that can help you alleviate a tickle in your throat.
Natural Remedies
There are a number of natural remedies you can try to get rid of a tickle in your throat. Natural remedies are generally safe and effective options for many people. Some of the most popular natural remedies include:
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea can help alleviate a tickle in your throat due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Brew a cup of chamomile tea and sip it slowly to help soothe the throat. Warm liquids can also help calm down your throat muscles.
Honey and Lemon
The combination of honey and lemon can help soothe a sore throat and suppress that tickle. Mix a tablespoon of honey and a squeeze of lemon in a cup of hot water and drink it slowly. Be sure to use raw honey only as it contains natural enzymes and antioxidants.
Gargling Salt Water
Gargling salt water is a time-tested remedy for a tickle in the throat. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for around 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat the process several times daily.
Deep Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing exercises are an excellent way to relieve anxiety and control your breathing, which can help alleviate a tickle in the throat. Some great deep breathing exercises that you can try include:
Belly Breathing
Belly breathing, or diaphragmatic breathing, focuses on deep breaths that expand the stomach, not the chest. To perform this exercise, place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach. Take a deep breath in through your nose and aim to feel your stomach expanding. Exhale slowly through your mouth.
Counting Breaths
Counting breaths is a simple deep breathing exercise. To do this, inhale deeply through your nose, count to four, and exhale slowly through your mouth, counting to six. Repeat several times.
Avoiding Triggers
Avoiding triggers that might be irritating your throat is another excellent way to alleviate a tickle in your throat. Consider elements like allergens, certain foods, and smoke as potential causes. Here are a few tips to help you avoid triggers:
Allergens
If allergens trigger your tickle in the throat, do your best to minimize your exposure to them. This may mean avoiding times when pollen counts are high, using an air purifier, or getting allergy shots. Wear personal protective equipment if you need to work outdoors.
Certain Foods
Spicy and fried foods can irritate the throat, as can drinks like coffee and alcohol. Consider limiting your intake of these foods when your throat is irritated.
Throat Sprays
Throat sprays can help relieve the symptoms of a tickle in the throat by numbing the throat lining. A numbing throat spray is an over-the-counter medication that can provide temporary relief. Some great options to try include Chloraseptic and Vicks VapoCool. Before using the spray, be sure to read instructions carefully.
Steam Therapy
Steam therapy is a simple and effective process that can help relieve a tickle in the throat. Fill a pot with boiling water and place a towel over your head, then breathe in the steam slowly. You can also add essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint to the water for a more soothing effect. Steam can help soothe the irritated throat and loosen mucus in the upper respiratory system.
Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques are powerful tools for reducing anxiety and can also alleviate a tickle in the throat. Consider the following techniques:
Meditation
Practicing meditation regularly can help soothe your mind and reduce anxiety. Incorporate 10-15 minutes of meditation into your daily routine.
Yoga
Yoga not only helps reduce anxiety, but it also promotes healthy breathing. Try doing yoga regularly, especially poses or asanas that help open up the chest and respiratory passage such as Cobra pose, Bridge pose, and Camel pose.
Warm Baths
Soaking in warm water can help relax the body and alleviate stress. Treat yourself to a warm bath at the end of the day to help release the day’s tensions and discomforts.
Lozenges
Over-the-counter lozenges can help soothe a tickle in the throat. Some great options to try include Chloraseptic, Halls, and Ricola. Be sure to suck on the lozenge instead of chewing it. These lozenges can help quickly alleviate a tickle in the throat.
Conclusion
A tickle in the throat can be annoying and uncomfortable, but there are several ways to alleviate this issue. Try natural remedies, deep breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, steam therapy, throat sprays, and lozenges to help soothe the throat. Try to avoid triggers such as allergens and certain foods.
