Sore Throat: How to get rid of it?
Sore throat (pharyngitis) is among the most common health ailment and seems to happen more often during the winter. It is usually caused by an infection such as strep throat, the flu, or a common cold. It can be quite painful, but it usually goes away after a week or so.
Sore Throat Causes
Most sore throats are caused by viruses, like the flu or the common cold. Some of the more serious causes of the ailment could be tonsillitis, strep throat, and mononucleosis (mono).
Other things such as smoking and dry air can also irritate your throat. Moreover, mouth breathing at night while you sleep, eating acidic or spicy food, pollution, and allergies to pets and pollens can also be a cause of irritation to your throat.
Sore throat treatments and Remedies
A sore throat is typically due to a viral infection, but it could be caused by a bacterial infection or allergies. Most sore throats caused by viral infections like the common cold should go away within three to 10 days. However, if a bacterial infection like strep is the cause, it could last longer without appropriate antibiotic treatment.
There are many ways to treat and ease the symptoms of a common viral sore throat. Antibiotics won’t help with a viral sore throat, but they will work for strep throat.
Regardless of the cause of your sore throat, there are home remedies for sore throat that can help ease the symptoms.
Gargling with Salt Water
Saltwater gargle is an effective remedy to kill bacteria, loosen mucus, and ease throat pain. Simply dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and then gargle it.
Honey for Sore Throat
Honey is a common household remedy for both sore throats and nighttime coughs. Moreover, it has antibacterial properties that help speed up healing by coating your throat and reducing irritation. Add a tablespoon of honey into warm water or tea and sip until your symptoms ease up.
Lemon to Boost the Immune System
Just like saltwater gargle and honey, lemons are great for sore throats. They are rich in vitamin C, which can help your body’s immune system and battle the infection effectively. Mix one teaspoon of lemon juice into a glass of warm water, and drink for instant relief.
Tea for a Sore Throat
Many different kinds of herbal teas can help ease a scratchy throat. Green tea is known for its antibacterial properties, while ginger has an anti-inflammatory effect that can help fight against infections while providing relief.
Rest and Hydration
Get plenty of rest and sleep. Drink a lot of fluids to prevent dehydration and keep your throat moist. Stick to comforting beverages such as simple broth, soup, warm water, or caffeine-free tea with honey. Avoid any caffeinated drinks like coffee, because they can dehydrate you.
Chicken soup
Chicken soup is a well-known home remedy that has been used for centuries to help people with sore throats. Besides being a comfort food, it also helps you to get more fluids when you’re sick.
Take Steam to Relieve your Sinuses
Dry air can play a role in the development of an irritated throat. Steaming water helps humidify your airways when they are dry and scratchy. The humidity from the steam will help add some moisture back into your throat, easing the discomfort. You can also invest in a humidifier, it will keep the air moist and help open your sinuses.
There are many reasons why someone might have a sore throat, but to ease the pain, you need to understand what’s causing it. A visit to your doctor can help get to the bottom of the issue and give you the best advice on how to treat it.
Book an appointment now at Memon Medical Institute and consult a doctor to get expert advice, a treatment plan, and a prescription if needed.