How to soothe a sore throat

[FlyJ]

A sore throat can be the first sign of a cold, a side effect of strained vocal cords, or an indication of something more serious (like strep throat). Regardless of the cause, your immediate concern when soreness strikes is how to get relief, fast. You may be tempted to run to your doctor, but some of the best treatments are home remedies and over-the-counter medication.

 

Here are steps to try the next time you’re feeling scratchy, hoarse, or just plain sick.

 

Anti-inflammatories: One of the most effective treatments for sore throat is probably already in your medicine cabinet: an over-the-counter, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.

 

They are a combination pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, so they’ll make you feel better and they’ll also reduce some of the swelling associated with a sore throat. If you have a fever that’s also contributing to your symptoms, they can help reduce that as well.

 

Saltwater gargle: Several studies have found that gargling several times a day with warm salt water can reduce swelling in the throat and loosen mucus, helping to flush out irritants or bacteria. Doctors generally recommend dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in one cup of water. If the salty taste is too unpleasant for you, try adding a small amount of honey to sweeten the mixture slightly. Spit the water out after gargling.

 

Lozenges and sprays: Sucking on cough drops stimulates saliva production, which can help keep your throat moist. For an added benefit, choose brands with a cooling or numbing ingredient, like menthol or eucalyptus.

 

Cough syrup: Even if you don’t have a cough (yet), over-the-counter cough syrups can help ease soreness. They coat the throat and provide temporary pain relief. If you’re headed to work, be sure to choose a non-drowsy formula. But if you’re having trouble sleeping due to a sore throat, a night time formula can relieve pain and help you get some sleep.

 

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