How to Quickly Soothe Sore Throat

Introduction

A sore throat can be a symptom of a number of illnesses, but the most common cause is an infection of the throat. This can be caused by a virus or bacteria, and usually causes pain and discomfort. Thankfully, there are a number of things you can do to quickly soothe a sore throat and provide relief.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

The first thing you should do to soothe a sore throat is to drink plenty of fluids. This will help to keep your throat hydrated and make it easier to swallow. It will also help to thin the mucus, which can reduce the inflammation and help to flush out the infection. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, and if you can, warm liquids like herbal tea and warm broth are even better.

Gargle with Salt Water

Gargling with salt water is a tried and true method for soothing a sore throat. It can help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that are causing the infection. To make a saltwater gargle, mix ¼ teaspoon of salt into 8 ounces of warm water. Swish the salt water around in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Do this a few times a day for best results.

Take Over-the-Counter Medication

If you need some extra relief, there are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help. Pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce the pain and inflammation. There are also lozenges and sprays that contain numbing agents that can help to reduce the pain. If your sore throat is caused by allergies, there are also antihistamines that can provide relief.

Get Plenty of Rest

Finally, it’s important to get plenty of rest while you’re recovering from a sore throat. Your body needs time to rest and fight off the infection, so try to get as much rest as possible. If you’re up and about, remember to take breaks and avoid strenuous activities that could make your throat worse.