Why you keep clearing your throat — and how to stop for good
Clearing one’s throat is a common reflex that many people experience, especially during allergy season. However, for some individuals, throat clearing can become a habitual behavior that is difficult to break. This persistent habit can lead to stress and anxiety, as well as potential damage to the vocal cords.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, laryngologist Dr. Inna Husain shed light on the causes of chronic throat clearing, as well as when it may be necessary to seek help from a specialist and how to kick the habit for good.
Dr. Husain explained that when people clear their throats, it can cause the vocal folds to slam together. Over time, this repeated action can lead to lesions, nodules, bruising, and hemorrhages that can impact the voice. The vocal cords are essential for creating sound, so injuring them through frequent throat clearing can have lasting consequences. An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) exam can help patients identify the root of the problem.
One common cause of chronic throat clearing is laryngeal pharyngeal reflux (LPR), also known as silent reflux. This condition occurs when stomach contents travel up into the throat, causing inflammation without typical heartburn symptoms. While LPR is not life-threatening, it can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life by making the throat more sensitive and prone to irritation.
In addition to LPR, other factors that can contribute to throat clearing include allergies, sinusitis, vocal cord issues, aging, asthma, tracheal narrowing, and certain medications. As people age, the vocal folds may thin, leading to increased sensitivity and the need for throat clearing.
To address chronic throat clearing, Dr. Husain recommends starting with an ENT exam to identify any underlying issues. It is crucial to determine the root cause of the problem before implementing a treatment plan. Hydrating the vocal folds, avoiding smoking, limiting acidic foods, and using saline nebulizers can help reduce irritation and inflammation in the throat.
In addition to addressing the root cause, individuals can also try alternative behaviors to reduce the urge to clear their throats. Sipping water, blowing air, swallowing, or humming can help the throat heal and reset over time. By incorporating these strategies into their daily routine, individuals can break the habit of chronic throat clearing and improve their overall throat health.
Overall, chronic throat clearing can be a bothersome and potentially damaging habit. By seeking help from a specialist, identifying the underlying cause, and adopting alternative behaviors, individuals can effectively manage and overcome this common issue.
