Sore Throat

A sore throat is an inflammation of throat and is very common. It is usually caused by a viral infection, and often develops with a cold or the flu. It may also be a symptom of mononucleosis, mumps, laryngitis, or tonsillitis. In addition to a painful throat, patient may also have difficult swallowing, a mild cough, hoarse voice, fever, headache, and enlarged glands in front of neck. Normally, the soreness gets worse over a period of 2-3 days, and then begins to clear up.

Sore Throat Symptoms

• Pain or a scratchy sensation in the throat.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Dry throat.
• Hoarse or muffled voice.

Home Remedies for Sore Throat

• Turmeric and Salt: Gargle with hot water mixed with 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder and a pinch of salt.
• Milk and Turmeric: Drink 1 cup of hot milk boiled with 1/2 teaspoon turmeric.
• Honey and Cinnamon: Take 1 teaspoon of powdered cinnamon, a pinch of pepper, and two teaspoons of honey in a glass of boiled water.
• Basil: Drink water boiled with basil leaves, and also use to gargle to relieve sore throat.
• Onion and Honey: Consume equal mixture of onion juice and honey can relieve a sore throat and cough.
• Popsicles or lozenges: Suck on popsicles or lozenges containing licorice, slipperyelm, or marshmallow.
• Tea: Drink warm tea with honey which help soothe the soreness of strep throat.

Do’s for Sore Throat

• Rest your voice.
• Drink at least 8 glasses of fluids a day. Warm drinks with honey and lemon are particularly soothing.
• For acute sore throat eat foods that are light and mild in flavor such as olives, figs, turnips and peppermint.
• For chronic sore throat eat pears and water chestnut.
• Gargle with a salt solution. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of water, gargle for 20-30 seconds and spit it out.

Don’ts for Sore Throat

• Avoid talking too much or straining your voice.
• Avoid undiluted citrus juices as they are acidic and may irritate throat.
• Don’t use mouthwash containing alcohol.
• Avoid smoky or polluted environments.
• If you smoke, stop it.
• Avoid spicy foods.
• Avoid fermented foods and dairy products such as cheese, yogurt.

See Doctor

• Sore throat becomes more severe or has not got better after 5 days.
• Having very difficulty in swallowing.
• Develops other symptoms such as joint pain or swellings.

FAQ

• What is the fastest way to cure sore throat?

Community Q&A

• See Sore throat related user asked question & answers

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