Sore Throat Relief

Pharyngitis, or what’s better known as a sore throat, is one of the most common communicable viral infections. Although there are no antibiotics to cure a sore throat, which usually takes about a week to heal, there are some ways to help ease the pain. Here are seven methods worth trying to soothe that achy throat.

 

Gargle with salt water. When mixed with water, salt acts as a mild antiseptic, and also helps to clear out mucous. Dissolve a half-teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water, gargle and spit out. Do this at least three times per day to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

 

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and other fluids, as this will help to thin mucous secretions as well as make up for fluid lost during mucous production. Hot liquids, such as soups and herbal teas, are recommended as they are helpful in lessening the pain of throat irritation. Steer clear of coffee and other caffeinated drinks since these produce the undesirable effect of dehydration.

 

Make a honey and lemon concoction. Boil hot water, pour it into a glass, and mix it with honey and lemon. Drink the mixture after it has slightly cooled. The honey will help to relieve the sore throat, while the lemon helps in reducing mucous production.

 

Increase your Vitamin C intake. Vitamin C boosts the immune system, and also helps to reduce inflammation so as soon as you start to feel a tingling sensation in your throat, be sure to get plenty of this vitamin by taking nutritional supplements or consuming foods rich in vitamin C.

Use a humidifier. Particularly in winter, the throat’s lining gets dried out by the cold, dry air, which causes a sore throat to feel more irritable. Run a humidifier in the bedroom while you sleep, as this will help to add moisture back into the air and prevent the lining of your throat from getting too dry.

 

Suck on throat lozenges. This helps to stimulate the production of saliva which in turn helps to cleanse the throat. Throat lozenges may also help to soothe the throat by numbing the pain. For the most effective relief, suck on sugar-free varieties that come in lemon or other sour flavours.

 

Apply a warm heating pad or compress to your throat. Spend a few minutes massaging your throat with a heating pad or compress; this will help to relax the muscles in your throat. Do this at least two or three times per day.