What remedies can help your sore throat?
Remedies for Sore Throat
- Rest: Give your voice a break and limit your talking. Try to get as much rest as possible to give your body time to heal.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids, such as water, tea, or soup. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, as these can irritate your throat.
- Eat soothing foods: Stick to soft, easy-to-swallow foods like soup, yogurt, applesauce, or mashed potatoes. Avoid spicy or acidic foods, as these can worsen your sore throat.
- Gargle with salt water: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds. This can help to reduce swelling and pain in your throat.
- Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help to soothe your throat. Use a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom or living room.
- Take over-the-counter medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help to relieve pain and inflammation in your throat.
- Try a lozenge: Sucking on a lozenge can help to soothe your throat and provide temporary relief from pain.
- Avoid irritants: Smoke, dust, and other irritants can make your sore throat worse. Try to avoid these triggers as much as possible.
If your sore throat is severe or does not improve within a few days, it's important to see your doctor.