How to Make Your Throat Feel Better

Sore, scratchy or irritated throats can have a number of causes, including bacterial infections, viruses, allergies, acid reflux and overuse of the voice through talking or shouting. Most of these can be relieved or treated using home remedies. Always consult with your doctor before treating a sore throat, though. He can help you determine the cause, determine whether you need an antibiotic or other prescription treatment or recommend over-the-counter treatments or home remedies.

Things You'll Need

• Salt
• Juice, tea or soup
• Frozen treats or ice cubes
• Humidifier or small bowl of water

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Instructions

• 1

  Mix 1 tsp. of salt with 8 oz. of warm water. Gargle this mixture as often as once an hour to relieve irritation and inflammation of the throat, according to WebMD.

• 2

  Consume plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated moisturizes and soothes the throat and may thin mucous secretions. Hydration can come in the form of cold drinks, such as water or juices, or warm liquids, such as soups or teas. Frozen treats, such as fruit bars, or ice cubes can also hydrate the throat and may help relieve pain.

• 3

  Use a humidifier to replace the moisture in dry air. Dry air can further irritate the throat. If you do not have a humidifier, you can place a shallow bowl of water in a room to humidify the air. While your throat is irritated, humidify the air in rooms where you spend the most time.

• 4

  Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about over the counter medications that may ease your sore throat or relieve the conditions contributing to it. Your doctor or pharmacist may recommend include decongestants, which reduce the inflammation of mucus membranes; an expectorant to loosen mucous secretions; an antihistamine to reduce allergic reactions; or an acid reducer if he suspects the problem is caused by acid reflux. She may also recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever.