Most sore throats are caused by viral infections like the flu or the common cold. These throat problems are generally mild and go away on their own.
To soothe a sore throat, keep it moist. "Have you noticed that your sore throat seems to get worse in the morning? This is because your throat dries up at night," says NIH infectious disease expert Dr. Valerie Riddle. "Lozenges or hard candy, or anything that stimulates saliva production, will help to keep your throat moist. It's also important to drink plenty of fluids."
Home remedies
- Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids can prevent your throat from becoming dry and more sore.
- Gargling: Rinses with warm salt water can reduce inflammation. We will have to add salt to the hot water in a proportion that feels good to us.
- Staying cool: It is important to avoid very hot foods and drinks as they can add additional irritation to the throat
- Throat lozenges: Cough drops and even honey lemon drops can provide relief.
Not recommended foods and drinks:
- Crunchy, hard foods such as crackers, toast, nuts, or raw vegetables can cause a more severe sore throat.
- Sugary or pickled foods: Foods made with vinegar or salt, such as pickles, can make a sore throat worse.
- Tomato juice and sauces: The acidic nature of tomatoes causes the same effect as orange juice.
- Spices: While some spices can help a sore throat, others, such as chili, nutmeg, or hot sauces, can make the inflammation worse.
- Alcohol: Drinks and mouthwashes that contain alcohol can cause a stinging sensation. Alcohol itself is also dehydrating, so it is not recommended for people with a sore throat.
- Tobacco: Avoid first and second hand smoke as much as possible.
If you regularly have a sore throat, it could be a symptom that our immune system is in poor shape, hence it is necessary to see a general practitioner and, in the meantime, increase your intake of foods that are rich in vitamin C, such as kiwi or the orange.
The best way to protect yourself against the germs that cause these infections is to wash your hands often. Try to stay away from people who have colds or other contagious infections. Also, avoid smoking and inhaling secondhand smoke, as this can irritate the throat.