What Helps a Sore Throat?
When it comes to answering the question of “what helps a sore throat,” the most important thing to consider is the many proven treatment options. There are many ways to treat this ailment, and if you experiment with multiple ideas you will find the one that is best for you.
Note: if you are unable to treat the sore throat on your own or are uncomfortable making this decision, it is best to seek medical guidance.
How you deal with a sore throat is based largely on the cause. Are you suffering from a virus, which has led to a common cold? What about strep throat, which is caused by a bacteria infection? How about allergies?
Once you pinpoint the cause, it is easier to decide on a treatment method.
Generally speaking, a sore throat caused by a virus or allergies is treated the same way. A sore throat caused by bacteria is best treated with an antibiotic.
If you are trying to treat a sore throat on your own, here are several options to consider:
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Anti-inflammatories. These medicines act as both an anti-inflammatory as well as a pain reliever. In addition to making you feel better by relieving pain, the swelling associated with a sore throat will subside.
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Saltwater gargle. This is one of the most effective ways to treat a sore throat. According to multiple studies, gargling multiple times per day with warm salt water can loosen mucus, helping flush your throat of bacteria and other irritants. Along with this, it can help reduce swelling.
Doctors recommend the following: dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of water. From there, gargle for 30 seconds and then spit the water out.
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Lozenges. Did you know that sucking on a simple cough drop can help a sore throat? This helps your body produce more saliva, thus keeping your throat moist. There are also lozenges that include a numbing ingredient, such as menthol, which can help take away some of the pain.
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Cough syrup. You may not have a cough just yet, but this can help ease some of the pain associated with your sore throat. Just the same as lozenges, this will add a coating to your throat, providing pain relief.
Tip: be sure to take non-drowsy cough syrup unless you are in position to sleep heavily for the next few hours.
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Stay hydrated. This may sound simple, but it is extremely important if your throat is inflamed. This will keep your mucous membranes moist, making it more effective in fighting off bacteria and/or allergens.
If you want to help a sore throat, these five treatment options can put you on the fast path to recovery.