Sore throats, although usually not serious, are very common. According to Mayo Clinic, sore throats are one of the main reasons people see a doctor. But more often than not, seeing a doctor isn't necessary. Most sore throats are the result of a virus that goes away on its own within a few days. However, sore throat symptoms can be quite uncomfortable. To help ease irritation, you can treat a sore throat at home with over-the-counter medications and natural remedies.
Instructions
1. Drink lots of fluids. Liquids such as water, tea, juice and warm soup help replenish fluids lost due to fever or mucus production. Herbal teas such as chamomile and sage are especially good for soothing a sore throat.
2. Gargle warm salt water. Add about 1/4 tsp. salt to 1/2 cup of warm water and mix well. Gargle with the mixture several times a day. This helps to clear excess mucus from the throat.
3. Sip honey and lemon mixed with warm water. Stir desired amounts of honey and lemon in very hot water, and then allow the mixture to cool before sipping. The lemon helps cut mucus, and the honey coats and soothes the throat.
4. Suck on a lemon, hard candy or a throat lozenge. The juice from the lemon helps soothe the throat, and the vitamin C in it helps your body fight germs. Sucking on candy or a throat lozenge produces extra saliva, which cleans and bathes the throat.
5. Eat cold foods such as ice cream, frozen fruit bars and yogurt. The cold temperature and soothing texture of these foods can temporarily ease sore throat pain.
6. Use a humidifier. Adding moisture to the air helps prevent the mucous membranes from drying out, which reduces irritation and makes it easier to sleep.
7. Get plenty of rest. Extra sleep can help your body recover faster from whatever is causing the sore throat.
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