10 Ways to Relieve a Sore Throat
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Gargle with salt water
- Combine 1/4 to 1/2 tsp of table salt with 4 to 8 ounces of warm water
- Stir until the salt dissolves, then gargle for several seconds and spit it out
- Repeat several times a day for best results
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Suck on a lozenge or candy
- Over-the-counter throat lozenges containing menthol can provide temporary relief from soreness and pain
- Candy and cough drops can also help keep the throat lubricated, but may not provide as much relief as medicated lozenges
- Avoid giving lozenges or cough drops to young children, as they can be a choking hazard
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Try over-the-counter pain relief
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce inflammation and swelling in the throat
- They can also relieve soreness and scratchiness
- Remember that viruses cause most sore throats, and cannot be treated with antibiotics
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Try honey and tea
- Warm tea sweetened with honey can help soothe an irritated throat and keep you hydrated
- Green tea has antibacterial and pain-relieving properties, and is also a rich source of antioxidants
- Honey is also an effective cough suppressant and works as well as over-the-counter cough medication
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Use an echinacea and sage spray
- A study in the European Journal of Medical Research found that this herbal remedy can soothe a sore throat as effectively as over-the-counter sprays
- A few spritzes can provide relief when needed
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Stay hydrated
- Drink plenty of water and other hydrating beverages to keep your body producing enough saliva and mucus to lubricate the throat
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can further dehydrate the body
- Warm liquids such as tea or soup can also help, but be careful not to burn your already sensitive throat
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Use a humidifier
- Breathing in moist air can help soothe swollen tissue in the nose and throat
- Use a cool mist humidifier to increase the moisture in your room
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Take a steam shower or breathe in steam from a hot sink
- The warm, moist air can reduce swelling and ease throat pain
- To use a sink, run very hot water and then drape a towel over your head and the sink to trap the steam
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Use over-the-counter throat sprays
- These sprays can provide temporary relief from soreness and pain
- Follow the instructions on the label for proper use
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Get plenty of rest and try to relax
- Your body needs time to heal and recover, so be sure to get plenty of rest
- Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can also help reduce stress and promote healing.
FAQs:
What causes a sore throat?
A sore throat can be caused by a variety of things, including viral infections (such as the common cold or flu), bacterial infections (such as strep throat), allergies, irritants (such as tobacco smoke or pollution), or dry air.
How long does a sore throat last?
The duration of a sore throat can vary depending on the cause. A viral sore throat may last for a few days to a week, while a bacterial sore throat (such as strep throat) may last longer and require antibiotic treatment.
Can a sore throat be serious?
In most cases, a sore throat is not serious and can be treated at home with self-care measures. However, if you have a fever, difficulty swallowing, or swollen glands in the neck, you should see a doctor, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.
How can I prevent a sore throat?
To prevent a sore throat, you can try the following: Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs Drink plenty of fluids to keep your throat hydrated Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air Avoid talking for long periods of time, especially in dry or dusty environments Eat a healthy diet to boost your immune system.
