A sore throat is one of the most common complaints during the cold season but can also occur in summer due to air conditioning, cold drinks, or allergies. This symptom may signal an infection or simply irritation. Regardless of the cause, a sore throat causes discomfort, makes swallowing and talking difficult, and even interferes with sleep. Fortunately, there are many effective ways to quickly ease the condition. In this article, Baltimore Chronicle’ll look at how to properly respond to a sore throat, which remedies are worth using, and when you should consult a doctor.
Causes of a Sore Throat: What You Should Know
Before starting treatment, it’s worth understanding what exactly is causing the pain. The causes may vary – from infections to external irritants.
Most common causes of sore throat:
– Viral infections (flu, ARVI, coronavirus)
– Bacterial infections (tonsillitis, streptococcal infection)
– Allergies to pollen, dust, animal fur
– Excessive strain on vocal cords
– Dry air or sudden temperature changes
– Smoking or passive smoke inhalation
In most cases, a sore throat is caused by viruses that do not require antibiotics. It is important to recognize symptoms that may indicate bacterial infection in time.
Symptoms That Require Medical Attention:
– High fever over 38.5°C (101.3°F)
– White patches on the tonsils
– Swollen lymph nodes
– Difficulty breathing
– Pain lasting more than 5 days
Home Remedies for Treating a Sore Throat
If the sore throat is not caused by a serious infection, it can be effectively treated at home. Here are several proven methods.
Gargling
This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce pain and inflammation.
Popular gargling solutions:
- Salt solution (1 tsp of salt per glass of warm water)
- Baking soda and salt (0.5 tsp each per glass)
- Herbal infusions (chamomile, sage, calendula)
- Antiseptic solutions like chlorhexidine or furacilin
Gargle 3–5 times a day after meals.
Warm Drinks
Fluids help moisten the mucosa and reduce pain.
Recommended beverages:
– Warm tea with honey and lemon
– Rosehip decoction
– Cranberry or blackcurrant fruit drink
– Milk with honey or turmeric
Avoid hot drinks that can further irritate the throat.
Inhalations
Inhalations moisturize the throat, improve blood circulation, and help remove mucus.
Popular options:
– Steam inhalations with herbs (chamomile, eucalyptus)
– Inhalations with mineral water or saline solution
– Pharmacy solutions in a nebulizer (as advised by a doctor)
Foods That Relieve Sore Throat
Some foods have natural antiseptic or soothing properties.
Helpful items:
– Honey – has anti-inflammatory effects
– Ginger – a natural antiseptic
– Garlic – contains allicin that fights bacteria
– Bananas – soft and gentle on mucosa
Avoid acidic, spicy, and hard foods.
Over-the-Counter Remedies for Fast Relief
To relieve symptoms, local medications can be used.
Lozenges and throat pastilles
– Strepsils, Dr. Mom, Lizobact
– Provide pain relief and reduce inflammation
– May contain antiseptics or anesthetics
Throat sprays
– Tantum Verde, Hexoral, Cameton
– Applied directly to the affected area
– Have antiseptic and analgesic effects
Tablets and syrups
– Paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever
– Syrups with soothing components
Always read the instructions or consult a pharmacist before using any product.
Comparison Table of Sore Throat Treatment Methods
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | Frequency of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gargling | Accessible, fast effect | Requires regular application | 3–5 times a day |
| Lozenges | Convenient, pain-relieving | Temporary effect | Every 2–3 hours |
| Sprays | Fast-acting, targeted application | May cause allergies | 2–4 times a day |
| Warm drinks | Moisturize throat, no side effects | Less effective on their own | Throughout the day |
| Inhalations | Deep mucosal action | Requires time and equipment | 1–2 times a day |
When You Should See a Doctor
If the sore throat is accompanied by severe symptoms or does not subside within a few days, it may indicate a more serious issue.
Consult a doctor if:
– Fever doesn’t go down after 2 days
– Pain worsens despite treatment
– Swelling in the neck or difficulty breathing occurs
– Rash or other unusual symptoms appear
A doctor may take a throat swab to identify the infection and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Sore Throat Prevention
To avoid repeated inflammation, it’s important to follow simple guidelines.
Main preventive measures:
– Avoid hypothermia
– Humidify indoor air
– Don’t overuse cold drinks
– Wash hands regularly
– Avoid contact with sick people
– Harden your body gradually
– Use personal tableware
It is also recommended to strengthen the immune system through proper nutrition, enough sleep, and physical activity.
Earlier we wrote about how to boost your immunity.