Simple Remedies For a Sore Throat

There’s nothing fun about having a sore throat. The itching, burning and scratching can make eating, breathing and sleeping difficult. In most cases, you can find relief at home. Here are a few ways you can combat a sore throat this season.

Saltwater
Gargling with warm saltwater can help a sore throat. The salt pulls mucus out of the inflamed tissue and can help relieve the discomfort. Combine ¼ to ½ teaspoon of table salt with 4 to 8 ounces of warm water and stir until it dissolves. Gargle for a few seconds, then spit it out. Repeat a few times a day as necessary.

Lozenges
Some over-the-counter throat lozenges contain menthol. Menthol is an ingredient that can help numb the sore tissue in your throat. This will provide temporary relief and help increase your saliva production. The more saliva, the better lubricated your dry throat is.

Honey
Sweeten a cup of warm tea with a little honey for double the health benefits. Tea keeps you hydrated and the honey can help sooth an irritated throat. Research also shows that honey is an effective cough suppressant.

Humidifiers
Breathing in moist air can help soothe swollen tissue. A cool mist humidifier can help increase the amount of moisture in your room, especially during the drier winter months.

Steam showers
If you don’t have a humidifier you can mimic the effects of one with a warm shower. Breathe in the steam to help reduce swelling. You can hold a tablespoon of menthol ointment under the warm water to help fill the air with decongestant menthol aromas as well.

If your sore throat is sticking around for an extended period of time, or you have other worsening symptoms, don’t hesitate to talk to a doctor. Telehealth services are available to connect you to a provider by phone, tablet or computer.