Sore throat can be treated with medication and home remedies. Here is detailed information on the different treatment options available for the same.
Sore throat is one of the most common conditions experienced by people all over the world. It is also a symptom of other health conditions like common cold and influenza (flu). It is the inflammation of the larynx, pharynx, and tonsils. It can be caused due to virus or bacteria infection, allergies, extreme dryness, etc. Sore throat and strep throat are two different conditions, and the latter is specifically caused by Streptococcus bacteria and is more serious.
Treatment Using Medications
Sore throat is usually not very serious and can be treated with the help of over-the-counter drugs, medications, or home remedies. Antibiotics can only be used to treat the condition caused by bacteria. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose whether the condition is caused due to viral or bacterial infection. Decongestant sprays can be used to clear the throat and help relieve the symptoms. They relieve the mucus and ease breathing. These sprays are meant only for adults and are not recommended for children and babies.
Secondly, over-the-counter medications like analgesics (paracetamol and ibuprofen) can also be used. These are available under various brand names and can be used to relieve other symptoms. Cough syrups, cough drops, lozenges, etc., are also effective. If one experiences chronic sore throat, it is advisable to consult a doctor immediately.
Home Remedies
Many age-old remedies are still used today to treat sore throat. Take a look at the following:
- Gargling is one of the oldest and the best remedies. You can add ½ teaspoon salt in a glass of lukewarm water and gargle 3-4 times a day.
- Having hot tea provides a quick relief. You can add 1-2 slices of ginger or a teaspoon of honey to hot tea and have it once or twice a day.
- Add 1-2 teaspoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of lemon to a glass of hot or lukewarm water and drink it once or twice a day.
- Add ½ teaspoon (or a pinch) of turmeric powder in a glass of lukewarm or hot milk and drink it once a day.
- You can also apply a hot compress or heating pad to your throat to soothe the pain. Make sure you do not use a heat pad if you have applied any ointment to the affected area.
- Have hot liquid foods like soups, specially chicken soup, vegetable broths, herbal tea, etc.
Besides, you should drink lot of fluids to keep the body hydrated and get rid of the viral infection. It is advisable to take bed rest for 1 day for quick relief. Keep away from smoking, cold foods and drinks if you wish to gain relief quickly.
In most of the cases, either of these treatment methods can be effective. It is recommended to take medication only after consulting the doctor. If sore throat persists for more than 2 days, it is better to consult a doctor immediately. Take care!
Disclaimer: This article is meant for informative purposes only. It is not to be used as a substitute for doctor’s consultation and advice.
