No one likes a sore throat.
That scratchy, raw feeling is just annoying enough to ruin anyone's day. Once Fall rolls around and the weather outside gets a little colder these a lot more common. Thankfully, however, there are plenty of ways to get rid of a sore throat quickly and easily.
In this blog, we'll explore some of the best home remedies for sore throats. So if you're feeling under the weather, be sure to check out these tips!
Understanding a Sore Throat
Before we dive into so methods to treat a sore throat, let’s explore what a sore throat is and what it might indicate.
A sore throat is a common condition that can be caused by different factors. It may be a viral infection, allergies, dryness. While there are many over-the-counter treatments available, there are also several home remedies that can be effective in relieving the discomfort associated with a sore throat. Some of the most popular home remedies include gargling with warm salt water, drinking honey and lemon tea, and gargling with baking soda. In addition, many people find that eating Throat Coat or similar herbal teas can help to soothe a sore throat. While these home remedies are generally safe and effective, it is always important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new treatment.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Drinking plenty of fluids is important when you have a sore throat as it helps to keep your throat moist and prevents dehydration. UCI recommends you should drink half you weight (lbs) in water (oz). So if you weight 180 pounds, you should aim to drink 90 ounces of water to keep your immune system You can also drink warm liquids such as herbal tea or chicken soup, which can help to soothe your throat.
Gargle with Warm Salt Water
One of the simplest and most effective ways to get rid of a sore throat is to gargle with warm salt water. The salt helps to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, while the warmth helps to soothe the throat. To make a salt water gargle, mix 1 teaspoon of salt into 1 cup of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds.
Eat Soothing Foods
Eating certain foods can also help to ease a sore throat. Foods that are high in antioxidants, such as berries and dark leafy greens, can help to reduce inflammation. Additionally, foods like honey have antibacterial properties that can help to kill bacteria in the throat.
Rest
Getting plenty of rest is important when you are sick as it gives your body time to heal. When you are resting, be sure to prop yourself up with pillows so that you are not lying flat on your back. This will help to prevent drainage from your nose from running down into your throat and making your sore throat worse.
Avoid Irritants
There are several things that can irritate a sore throat and make the pain worse, so it is important to avoid them if possible. Things like smoke, dust, and strong smells can all aggravate a sore throat. Additionally, it is best to avoid talking or singing for long periods of time as this can also irritate the throat.
Take Over-the-Counter Medication
If home remedies are not providing relief, there are several over-the-counter medications that can help to ease a sore throat.
- Antihistamines are medications that block the action of histamine, a substance that is produced by the body in response to an allergic reaction. Histamine can cause a variety of symptoms, including sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Antihistamines are available over the counter and by prescription.
- Decongestants relieve congestion by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose. This helps to reduce swelling and improve airflow. Decongestants are available over the counter and by prescription.
- Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help to relieve pain and inflammation associated with a sore throat. These medications are available over the counter.
- Throat lozenges are medicated candy that can help to soothe a sore throat. They typically contain menthol or eucalyptus, which can help to numb the throat and relieve pain. Throat lozenges are available over the counter.
Treating Your Sore Throat
There are many ways you can sooth a sore throat. Try a few of the methods outlined in this blog and find out what works best for you this cold and flu season! Looking for a potential quick fix for your sore throat? Look no further than our all natural Phytorelief-CC supplement.