What Causes A Dry Throat?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a medical condition that causes an individual's breathing to begin and stop at involuntary periods while they are asleep. Under normal circumstances, air flows into the nose and mouth, down the throat, and into the lungs. When this normal breathing stops, it's called an apneic episode. In obstructive sleep apnea, there's a repeated stopping of the flow of air due to the airway being too narrow. Many patients with obstructive sleep apnea also snore because the air squeezing through a narrow space leads to loud vibrations. It's important to diagnose and treat sleep apnea because without treatment, the condition can lead to diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and even a stroke.

Learn about another cause behind a dry throat now.

Dry Air and Air Pollution

Dry air and air pollution can be the cause of a dry throat. When the air indoors is dry, it can make an individual's throat feel dry because the air circulation dries out the saliva that normally coats their throat. Air pollution can lead to a dry throat if it causes allergies, which can in turn cause mouth breathing because of nasal congestion. Chemicals and tobacco smoke can cause an individual's throat to feel dry and sore. Soreness might be a feeling of 'scratchiness' or feeling like the throat is swollen. One way to help with dry air is to get a humidifier, which releases moisture into the air. Air pollution can be combated through an air purifier. Additionally, individuals who smoke should do so outside rather than indoors.