Some methods don't work.
A sore throat is very uncomfortable . At the same time, there are many effective ways to treat sore throats, as well as those that do not help.
It can be difficult to determine the exact cause of a sore throat , which may be associated with dry air, allergies, bacterial or viral infection.
At the same time, viral infections such as SARS and flu are the most common cause of sore throats.
< strong>Important!These tips for relieving the symptoms of a sore throat are not intended to fight a bacterial or viral infection.
How to cure a sore throat
Gargling with salt water
This solution is not acts quickly like some of the options below, but this is the best first step to try to resolve the problem for further relief.
Gargling with warm salt water has been proven to reduce inflammation and soothe the throat.
< p>Here's how to do it:
- Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of common salt to a glass of warm water.
- Stir until the salt dissolves.
- Gargle for a few seconds and spit it out.
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- Repeat gargling with salt several times a day to relieve symptoms.
You can also add 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda for additional protection against inflammation.
< p>Steam and Humidity
While dry air is bad for your sinuses, steam provides essential moisture to your airways. Take a very hot steam shower or run a humidifier at night to prevent and soothe a sore throat.
Lozenges and Sucking Candies
Throat Lozenges & #8212; this is what everyone needs when it comes to pain relief, and for good reason. Look for lozenges that contain menthol, which acts as a mild anesthetic.
If all you have on hand is sucking candy, — dont be upset. They can also help stimulate saliva production and provide the moisture your throat needs.
Hot drinks
Warm liquids like tea or soup thin mucus, reduce congestion and make swallowing easier for sore throats.
Cold
On the other hand, sometimes you want the stunning effect of something very cold. Instead of tea, try eating ice cream or sucking on ice cubes.
Honey
Honey — it is a proven method for soothing the throat. One study even found honey to be more effective in controlling nighttime coughs than regular cough suppressants. Add honey to your tea, or mix a tablespoon or two with a glass of warm water.
Rest
Sleep is the key to recovery from any infection that, in the first place turn, can cause a sore throat. If you're awake and just relaxing, keep your head up so you can breathe easier.
What to avoid
These tips are often recommended all over the internet, but you might want to think twice before trying them:
Apple Cider Vinegar. Even though it has some antibacterial properties, it does not have the superpowers that many online sources claim.
Essential oils. Despite the hype, essential oils are often snake oils. Most need more research to prove their effectiveness, reliability, and safety.
When to see a doctor
Doctors recommend seeing a doctor if a sore throat lasts longer than a week and is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
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- Difficulty breathing;
- Difficulty opening the mouth;
- Joint pain;
- Ear pain;
- Rash ;
- Temperature above 38.3 degrees;
- Blood in saliva or sputum;
- Frequently recurring sore throat;
- Lump on neck;
- Hoarseness lasting more than two weeks;
- Swelling in the neck or face.