A sore throat can be very uncomfortable and very painful at times. Sore throats can be caused by many reasons some of them being allergy to dust and common cold or flu. It can also be caused by the infection of tonsils or adenoids. They can also be caused by a stuffy nose when one breaths through the mouth because the nose is blocked. A sore throat should not be taken lightly as it can be a warning sign for a more serious disease such as rheumatic fever. here, are some tips on how to soothe a sore throat:
Chewing lozenges
These can be found in the nearest chemist or k-mart store. They sooth the pain and help one to speak better.
Lemon tea
This will help soothe the soreness. No sugar or sweetener should be added as this makes it to get worse.
Salt water
Gargling salt water often during the day will ease the discomfort. It will also help dislodge mucus stuck in the throat.
Take a decongestant
Tablets of acetaminophen will decongest the nose. This will help by stopping breathing through the mouth.
Use humidifiers
These ensure there are no dust particles especially in the bedroom. If someone is allergic to dust they should avoid it at any cost as it can cause more serious problems such as bronchitis. If no humidifier is available hot water in an open container can be kept in the bedroom. The vapor will work just as well.
Hot fluids
Tea or chocolate is also a good soother for sore throats. They will help ease the discomfort and should be taken regularly.
Do not smoke
Smoking may cause sore throat or make it worse. This is because nicotine is very corrosive and it irritates the throat. People who regularly have sore throats should seriously consider quitting smoking.
Acidity
Stomach acid may cause sore throats too. How so? If the person has a reflux problem and the acidic stomach contents keep coming up, they will irritate the throat. They will also corrode the mucus lining and may cause ulceration. Use of antacids will also help neutralize the acidic contents.
Assuming that a sore throat is just simply that and can be treated in the ways listed above, this will work. However, in case of other problems such as a strep throat which is more serious, this will call for medical assistance. Usually a strep throat is a first symptom of rheumatic fever so speedy response may help mitigate the long-term effects of the disease.
Regular over the counter medicine will ease sore throat in seconds. Acetaminophen tablets can be taken. In case these are not available regular cough drops can be used. Aspirin can also help ease the discomfort but should be prescribed. This is because aspirin has many side effects and is known to make stomach ulcers worse. It even causes ulcers in people who did not have them previously.Sore throats can also be treated by taking soft foods that are less acidic and less salty. Food that has been mashed or in liquid form can help too.