6 Ways to Soothe a Sore Throat

Sore throats can be caused by infections from bacteria or viruses, allergies flaring up or at times environmental factors like voice strain or dry air. Most sore throats are viral and will resolve on their own within a week or sooner if using some of the measures below. However, if a sore throat lasts for more than 5 days or is accompanied by a high fever its best to see a doctor.

1. Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Pain Relief

Anti-inflammatory medicine like Ibuprofen or Naproxen, can help with pain, as well as help alleviate the swelling associated with a sore throat. They also work well to relieve fever, which may be an additional symptom of the cold virus.

2. Salt Water Gargle

Many studies have found that gargling several times a day with warm salt water can decrease swelling in the throat and remove mucus. This all helps to flush out irritants or bacteria. Start by dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in one cup of water, that has preferably been boiled and cooled. Adding some honey can help improve the taste, and further increase its antibacterial power. Gargle a small amount for 10 seconds and then spit out. Repeat 2 to 3 times a day.

3. Use a Humidifier

A painful, scratchy throat is most definitely made worse by sitting in a room, with warm dry air which is normally what winter is about. Running a humidifier or vaporiser will increase moisture in the air. The moist air improves breathing, will help keep your skin, mouth and nose lubricated, helping to reduce dryness of a sore throat and improve recovery.

4. Lozenges and Sprays

Sucking on a lozenge can increase saliva which not only helps lubricate and soothe a sore throat, if you choose one that has an antibacterial agent, it can also help treat it. Some lozenges and sprays additionally have an anaesthetic, which will temporarily numb painful throats, to make recovery time more tolerable.

5. Sip Chicken Soup…

Warm chicken broth may seem like an old-fashioned remedy; however, it has shown to have great benefit. The salt helps with inflammation and the warm fluid is both soothing, thins out mucus and provides much needed hydration, especially when there is a concurrent fever. It is also able to provide nourishment, particularly when a tender throat makes it difficult to swallow. Warm fluids overall are an important part of the recovery process of a sore throat or cold. Other options include herbal teas or simple warm water with lemon.

6. A Spoonful of Honey

The benefits of honey have been known for many years, however recent research has proven its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Manuka honey is beneficial for a sore throat, whether it is taken directly as a spoonful, or mixed with warm fluid, it has known activity against bacteria that causes throat infection.

Additionally, it can act as a cough suppressant and improve sleep, which can help prevent an aching throat for further irritation. Lastly it also has beneficial properties that can boost the immune response to speed recovery. Although an effective natural remedy, honey is not recommended for children under 12 months and diabetics should also be cautious with the amount they consume.