A sore throat is caused by various culprits, the most common being a cold. When aggravated by coughing, viruses or sinus drainage, the lower pharynx becomes inflamed and sore. Allergies might also produce a sore throat, as well as breathing through the mouth. Bacteria such as Streptococcus can cause the more serious infection Strep throat, more common in children than in adults. The symptoms of a mild sore throat (not Strep) can be treated by home remedies and will eventually run their course—but if they persist, don’t wait to see your doctor.
Instructions
1. Use a salt water gargle. The primary symptom of a sore throat is edema, or swelling of the pharynx’s mucous membranes. For a temporary fix, gargle warm salt water—the salt draws excess fluid from the inflamed area. To make the solution, dissolve 1 tsp. of salt into an 8-oz. cup of warm water.
2. Try an apple cider vinegar gargle. Other common home remedies included an apple cider vinegar gargle (1 tbsp. vinegar to 2 tbsp. water), used as a gentle antiseptic. A honey and lemon juice mixture (in equal parts) taken several times a day will temporarily relieve irritation.
3. Use paid relievers. To reduce pain and inflammation, take the recommended dose of Ibuprofen or Naproxen. Acetaminophen will also alleviate pain.
4. Add moisture to your environment. If you believe your sore throat is caused by dryness or breathing through the mouth, use a humidifier in your home.
5. Drink herbal tea. Known for its curative properties, chamomile tea has calming properties and may soothe an irritated throat. It’s also known to ease symptoms of the common cold. Drink 2 to 4 cups a day while the symptoms last.
6. Soothe your throat. Lozenges, especially medicated ones containing phenol (which can kill germs), will temporarily soothe a scratchy throat. Try sucking on zinc lozenges especially if your sore throat is accompanied by a cold—zinc has antioxidant properties and has been shown to reduce the duration of a cold.
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