How Does Drinking Water Relieve a Dry Throat and Coughing?
Discover how water can soothe throat irritation caused by pharyngeal irritants with its moisturizing properties. Keep your mucous membranes hydrated for effective cough relief.
Dry throat and coughing are common discomforts that often lead to reaching out for a glass of water. But what is the science behind how just drinking a simple glass of water can bring relief to these irritations?
Understanding the Mechanism Behind a Dry Throat:
Most of the time, an irritant in the pharynx, the area behind your nose and mouth, causes coughing even if the problem doesn't lie in the lungs or trachea themselves. As you take a sip of water, it passes over most of your pharynx on its way to your esophagus, potentially relieving the irritation.
Moisturizing the Throat Lining:
Upon swallowing water, it moistens the linings of the pharynx and esophagus. This moisture helps soothe any scratchiness or dryness that may be causing the discomfort. Furthermore, the act of swallowing itself can help to clear irritants or mucus from the pharynx which also contributes to the relief of a dry throat or coughing.
Preventing Dehydration:
Dehydration can exacerbate throat dryness and coughing. By drinking water, you ensure that your body remains adequately hydrated, which can, in turn, lessen the severity of a dry throat and minimize the frequency of coughing.
Enhancing Immune Responses:
Adequate hydration facilitates the body's immune function, which can help to address any underlying causes of throat irritation, such as allergens or minor infections. Drinking water can support the body's natural defenses and help in keeping the respiratory system in optimal condition.
Supporting Mucous Membrane Function:
Water aids in maintaining the elasticity and function of the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract. Proper hydration assists the mucous membranes in trapping irritants and preventing them from entering the deeper airways, reducing the chances of coughing.
