Suffering from a sore throat is a common struggle that many people face, especially during seasonal changes, particularly in winter. Sore throats can be caused by a range of factors such as viral infections, the common cold, flu, bacterial infections, dry air, smoking, acid reflux, and more. Regardless of the underlying cause, dealing with a sore throat can be a challenging experience.

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What is a Sore throat?

A sore throat is a medical condition characterized by scratchiness or pain in the lower part of the throat. It can make swallowing and even taking a sip of water painful and challenging for the sufferer.

Although a sore throat is generally not a severe medical condition, it can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. Therefore, seeking prompt medical attention is essential.

Doctor Recommended ways to Heal a Sore Throat at Home

Home remedies for a sore throat can be very effective and can often be found in most households. Here are sixteen doctor-recommended remedies that can provide fast relief from a sore throat:

1.  Gargles with Hot Water and Salt

Gargling with salt water is a widely used and effective remedy for a sore throat. Simply mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of medium hot water and gargle with the solution. Repeat this process two to three times daily to experience immediate relief. Salt water helps to reduce swelling, pain, and irritation while also bringing the infection to the surface of the throat, which can aid the body in fighting off the infection more effectively.

2.  Drinking Extremely Cold Liquids

Although it may seem counterintuitive, drinking cold liquids can actually provide relief for a sore throat. While the initial sips may be uncomfortable, the extreme coldness can help to numb the pain and reduce swelling in the throat.

3.  Suck on Some Ice Cubes

If swallowing is too painful, sucking on ice cubes or popsicles can be a more manageable alternative. This can provide the same soothing effect as drinking cold water. However, it is important to avoid flavors that contain citrus, as the acid content can potentially trigger a throat infection and cause further harm.

4.  Use a Humidifier 

If dry air is the cause of a sore throat, it is important to ensure that the throat is adequately moisturized. A humidifier can be used to provide the necessary moisture, which can help speed up the recovery period.

5.  Avoid Acidic Food

Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acids reach the throat and cause irritation, leading to some sore throats. In such cases, consuming acidic foods or drinks can further aggravate the throat and worsen the situation. Therefore, it is important to avoid consuming citrus liquids, fruits, carbonated drinks, and fried foods before bedtime. This can help alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux and prevent further irritation of the throat.

6.  Take Some Antacids

If a sore throat is caused by acid reflux, taking antacids can be helpful. Antacids work by neutralizing the accumulated acidity in the throat, which is the source of the initial pain.

7. Drink Much Herbal Tea

Drinking herbal teas infused with Echinacea can help boost the immune system, enabling the body to fight infections more effectively. Additionally, teas containing turmeric powder have been shown to be beneficial in these cases. Turmeric is renowned for its medicinal properties in several cultures, particularly in India, and is highly recommended for its therapeutic effects.

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8. Cover Your Throat With Honey

Honey is a beneficial option for soothing a sore throat caused by a bacterial infection. The sweetness of honey mixed with warm water possesses anti-bacterial properties, which can help alleviate painful throat symptoms effectively.

9. Take a Pain-Reducing Tablet

If the pain from a sore throat is unbearable and immediate relief is needed, taking a pain relief medication can be an easy option. This can provide quick and effective relief from sore throat symptoms.

10.     Use a Nasal Decongestant

Using a nasal decongestant can help alleviate blockage in the nose, allowing for normal breathing. Limited use of this technique can also help dry out mucus and promote faster healing of a sore throat.

11.     Avoid Speaking Too Much

As your throat is already vulnerable, talking excessively can worsen the condition. Therefore, it is recommended to reduce speech as much as possible, giving your throat the necessary rest and allowing your body to fight off the infection.

12.     Change Your Toothbrush

Continuously using the same toothbrush for an extended period can cause an accumulation of bacteria on the brush, which may lead to infection. Therefore, changing the toothbrush regularly can help prevent this situation.

13.     Take Some Rest and Reboot

Taking a break from your regular routine and allowing your body the time it needs to fight off the germs and recover is beneficial. This gives your immune system the opportunity to respond to the illness at its own pace.

14.     Get Your Allergies Checked

If your throat is sore due to an allergic reaction to substances like dust or certain foods, it is important to get your allergies checked to avoid such situations.

15.     Take a Steam Shower or Bath

As mentioned previously, increasing moisture can help reduce swelling. Therefore, taking a steam shower can also be beneficial in this situation.

16.     Raise your Head While Sleeping

Elevating your head while sleeping can be a useful remedy for reducing throat pain as lying flat can put pressure on your neck and worsen the discomfort.

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Conclusion

A sore throat can be easily caught, but it can also be easily treated and cured. Taking care of yourself and incorporating the above-mentioned remedies into your routine can help you get rid of the pain and discomfort quickly.

If the sore throat persists or worsens, it is always advisable to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional.

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