A Sore Throat Can Make You Feel Miserable
1. Warm Beverages
Warm drinks, like teas or broth, can be soothing if you have a sore throat. They can increase blood flow to the area and hydrate you, which is important if you’re sick. Some teas, like chamomile, may offer anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce pain and discomfort.
2. Lozenges or Hard Candies
Sucking on lozenges or hard candies can help stimulate the production of saliva, which can make your throat feel better. Many lozenges also contain menthol, which can help dull any discomfort in throat tissue. Make sure you don’t give lozenges or hard candies to young children under age 5, as they can be a choking hazard.
3. Cold Foods
Cold foods, like popsicles, smoothies, or frosted treats, can help soothe an irritated throat. They can help temporarily numb the area, so you feel less pain, and provide hydration and may be easier to eat compared to other foods.
4. Medicines
Depending on the cause, over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medicines may help a sore throat. Antibiotics won’t work if you have a virus, but they will treat strep throat, a bacterial infection. OTC pain relievers, like Advil (ibuprofen) and Tylenol (acetaminophen), can relieve soreness if you have a virus. Certain prescription and OTC medicines may also alleviate symptoms if your sore throat is due to allergies.
5. Saltwater Gargle
Gargling warm salt water several times a day can clear mucus, lessen inflammation, and help throat soreness. Mix half a teaspoon (tsp) of salt with 1 cup of warm water. Gargle it and spit it out. Some people also use a baking soda gargle, which has a similar effect.
6. Humidifier
Dry air can irritate your throat. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can make breathing easier. Running a humidifier at night while you sleep may be especially helpful for a painful sore throat.
7. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is important if you’re feeling under the weather. If you’re dehydrated, your body can’t make enough saliva to keep your throat lubricated. This can make your symptoms worse. Water, tea, and warm soups are all good options for promoting hydration. Consuming caffeine and alcohol can lead to dehydration.
8. Honey
Honey is a natural anti-inflammatory that may soothe a sore throat. Some research has shown that honey is more effective than certain medicines at relieving nighttime cough in kids. You can eat a spoonful of honey or add it to your favorite tea, smoothie, or yogurt. However, babies under 1 year old should not have honey because it can give them botulism, a type of severe food poisoning.
9. Peppermint
Peppermint provides a cool sensation, which might help a sore throat. It may have anti-inflammatory properties, and the menthol in peppermint may also open up your sinuses. You can try gargling a few drops of peppermint sprinkled into warm water, but don’t do this if you have open sores in your mouth.
10. Echinacea and Sage Spray
One older study suggested a spray containing echinacea and sage can soothe a sore throat as well as OTC throat sprays. Such sprays are available over the counter. You can make this solution by combining 1 tsp ground sage, 1 tsp ground echinacea, and half a cup of water. Boil the water and place the herbs in a jar with it. After 30 minutes, pour the mixture through a strainer into a small spray bottle. Spray it into your throat as needed.
11. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper can help ease a sore throat. It contains capsaicin, which may naturally block pain and lower inflammation. You can try gargling a few drops of cayenne pepper sprinkled into warm water, but don’t do this if you have open sores in your mouth.
12. Steam Shower
A steam shower works much like a humidifier. It helps to moisten the air you breathe in. The extra moisture can lubricate your throat, which may help you feel better.
13. Rest
Getting enough rest is an important strategy for helping you feel better. If you are tired or worn down, your body might not be able to fight off whatever illness is causing your sore throat. Make sure you take it easy and get enough sleep each night.
What Does a Sore Throat Feel Like?
A sore throat can make it painful to swallow. Your throat might also feel scratchy or dry.
Things to Avoid When You Have a Sore Throat
If you have a sore throat, try to avoid these irritants:
- Smoking
- Secondhand smoke
- Foods that are spicy, acidic, salty, or difficult to swallow
- Loud noises
What Makes Swallowing Easier?
Eating or drinking soft foods can help make swallowing easier. Some examples include:
- Smoothies
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Eggs
- Gelatin
- Bananas
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Most sore throats are caused by respiratory viruses (such as the common cold) and should improve in a few days. If your symptoms persist or worsen, see a healthcare provider. You may want to consult a healthcare provider to see if they recommend a test to rule out strep throat. A throat swab test can determine if you have this infection, which requires antibiotics.
Preventing Sore Throat
You can help prevent a sore throat by avoiding infections and irritants. Here are some tips:
- Wash your hands often.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Avoid being around people who are sick.
- Don’t smoke or expose yourself to secondhand smoke.
Summary
Most people experience a sore throat from time to time. Though it is unpleasant, symptoms typically go away on their own. Remedies include eating warm or cool foods, using a humidifier, staying hydrated, taking OTC medications, and getting plenty of rest. Talk to your healthcare provider if your sore throat is severe or doesn’t go away.
