throat irritation throat irritation throat irritation can refer to a dry cough, a scratchy feeling at the back of the throat, a sensation of a lumpy feeling, something stuck at the back of the throat, or possibly a feeling of dust in the throat. the symptoms are unpleasant and usually temporary, but occasionally signifies a more serious health issue, such as laryngitis. common cold main article: common cold covid 19 main article: coronavirus disease 2019 allergy