Having a sore throat, a common minor illness, does not necessarily require medical treatment—though you may sometimes find it best to consult a physician. Usually this ailment results from certain bacteria or even viruses in the mouth and might last only two to three days.
- First determine the cause. A bug going around the office might present a possibility, especially if you work in an air conditioned environment. Using your voice excessively (cheering practice, singing or public speaking) can also cause a sore throat, as can strep throat—which is usually contagious. You can buy strep throat strips over the counter that can detect symptoms in under 30 minutes. However, these products do not really offer 100% accuracy.
- Your doctor might recommend the following prescriptions to lessen inflammation: aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen for grown-ups; or acetaminophen or ibuprofen for young children. Getting a doctor to prescribe medicine can help cure a sore throat safely and faster.
- Adults should consider taking anti-bacterial medicines such as lozenges. Menthol-flavored benzocaine or phenol can help anesthetize the throat, which in effect soothes the pain. Your doctor might also recommend Zinc lozenges. Children can take medicine drops for a cough or use other products in the form of hard candy.
- Try using natural remedies such as gargling anti-bacterial mouthwash with mint flavor or water with a little salt in it.
- If you meet the minimum age requirement listed on the product, try using a throat spray with anesthetizing components.
- Personal hygiene proves essential to prevent a sore throat. When you brush your teeth, make sure you also brush your tongue to avoid and remove bacteria that has already built up.
- Institute cleaning your toothbrush in between brushing as a routine practice. However, as you clean your tongue, it is important to clean as well your toothbrush with your mouthwash to remove any bacteria that might contaminate your toothbrush.
- Sometimes you can ease a sore throat by drinking ice-cold drinks. Prepare a glass one-half full of ice then pour in your favorite fruit juice. Leave it for at least 10 minutes to give time for the fruit juice to cool. Use a straw and drink it slowly, letting the juice reach the back of your throat to make you feel better as the cold sensation passes your swelling throat.
- Your environment proves crucial. Make sure you have enough moisture in the room. Do this by installing a humidifier vaporizer. You might want to take a hot, steamy bath to try to relieve the pain as well.
- No particular food offers relief from sore throat pain, but you can try ice cream or chicken soup.
- Refrain from smoking, as this will irritate your throat.
