How to Treat a Scratchy, Sore Throat

Treat a sore throat and get rid of throat irritations typical with infections and viruses. You can stop inflammation and quickly relieve a sore, scratchy throat with medications and home remedies.

Instructions

• 1

  Grab a lozenges. Pop a throat lozenge or cough drop to help relieve scratchiness and soothe an irritated throat.

• 2

  Take cold medications. Pain relievers in cold medications can help treat a sore throat. Take medication as instructed.

• 3

  Skip cold liquids. Ice cold drinks may worsen a sore throat. Treat a sore throat by sipping on warm or hot liquids such as tea or coffee.

• 4

  Make soup. Along with hot beverages, regularly eat soup or broth to help soothe throat irritation and get over a sore throat fast.

• 5

  Grab your scarf. Wrap a scarf around your nose and mouth before going outside in the winter to avoid breathing in cold air.

• 6

  Take an antihistamine. Allergens may be the culprit. Avoid common irritants such as cigarette smoke, perfumes and other chemicals, or take an allergy medication to ease symptoms.

• 7

  Treat a sore throat with saltwater. Drop a few pinches of salt in warm water and gargle several times a day to stop throat irritation or pain.

• 8

  See a doctor. A chronic sore throat that doesn't respond to home remedies can indicate strep throat or another infection. See a doctor if your condition worsens.