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A sore throat refers to pain, irritation and itchiness in the throat. This can happen due to allergens, seasonal changes and, sometimes, infections. Sore throat is usually not a serious concern, but it can cause acute discomfort. Fortunately, with some simple home remedies for sore throat, you can recover in no time.
Synopsis
Causes of Sore Throat
Some common causes of sore throat include:
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Infections: Bacterial and viral infections, like common cold, influenza, strep throat or COVID-19 often cause sore throat.
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Allergens: Pollen, dander from pet hair, mold and other allergens are often responsible for sore throat.
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Irritants: Dust, smoke, strong odour or other irritants often cause irritation in the throat.
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Injury: Yelling, shouting and even singing for too long causes throat’s muscles to strain, resulting in sore throat.
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Medical conditions: Chronic conditions, like acid reflux disorder or GERD, can cause sore throat.
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Inflammation: When tonsils or adenoids get inflamed due to infections, they can cause acute throat pain
Symptoms of Sore Throat
Some common symptoms of sore throat include:
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Pain or itchy feeling in the throat
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Pain while swallowing or talking
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Swollen glands in the neck or jaw
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Hoarse voice
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Pus or white patches in tonsils
Home Remedies for Sore Throat
Sore throat is a common problem but it can cause a lot of discomfort. However, some simple home remedies for sore throat will help you alleviate this problem:
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Salt water gargles: Salt water gargling is one of the most common home remedies for sore throat. Gargling lubricates the throat, reduces inflammation and also helps clear away mucous. To gargle with salt water, mix half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Gargle for a few seconds and spit out the mixture. You can gargle twice a day or every hour, as recommended by your doctor.
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Honey: Honey has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties that help soothe throat pain and irritation. To use honey for sore throat, simply mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of it with a warm cup of tea, water, herbal tea or lemon water and slowly sip throughout the day.
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Steam inhalation: Steam inhalation reduces congestion by loosening mucous, and helps prevent dryness in throat. This is one of the most beneficial natural remedies for sore throat and other symptoms of cold and flu.
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Drinking tea: A warm cup of tea is one of the most effect natural remedies to cure sore throat. Tea helps soothe throat pain and thins out the mucous stored in your sinuses. Some types of tea, like green tea, chamomile tea and peppermint tea also contain anti-inflammatory properties.
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Staying hydrated: Throat pain from sore throat can make swallowing difficult. This way, you might be tempted to avoid drinking fluids. But that will result in dry throat and increase throat ache.
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Ginger tea: Ginger is largely used as a natural remedy to cure sore throat. You can chew small pieces of ginger. You can also make ginger tea by boiling water with some ginger slices. Then add some lemon juice and honey once the tea cools a bit. Drink this solution throughout the day to get relief from throat pain.
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Turmeric: Turmeric has several medicinal properties. It helps reduce inflammation in the throat, kills infection-causing germs, and boosts immunity. You can have turmeric by mixing it with warm milk, water or form a paste by mixing it with honey. You can also add some turmeric to warm water and use it for gargling.
Things to Avoid While Having a Sore Throat
There are several home remedies for sore throat that will help you heal from the pain and irritation. But there are also some measures you should adapt to prevent sore throat from worsening.
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Avoid heavily spicy or acidic foods that can irritate your throat.
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Allergens that can worsen symptoms of sore throat
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Avoid drinks which are either chilled or very hot
Conclusion
Sore throat is a common problem that can be solved with some simple home remedies. However, if you have persistent pain and worsening symptoms, like high fever, blood in sputum and difficulty breathing, then you must consult a doctor. At Manipal Hospitals, our expert team of ENT specialists are here to provide you with accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment. Visit your nearest Manipal Hospitals unit today for prompt and comprehensive ENT care.
FAQ's
Sore throat when caused by bacteria or virus can be contagious. But when it happens due to allergens, dryness, injury or acid reflux, then it is not contagious.
Yes. Sugar thickens mucous and causes irritation at the back of the throat. It also helps bacteria to grow, which can worsen soreness in some people.
Honey is good for sore throat. But it is not recommended for children below 1 year old and diabetics must only consume a small amount.
he throat and ear share a common nerve, called the glossopharyngeal nerve. This is why, pain from throat can radiate to the ear.
Some simple measures, like proper hand hygiene, using clean utensils while eating, staying hydrated and wearing masks to avoid germs and allergens can help you prevent sore throat.
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