How to ease sore throat: five simple but effective ways

Every year millions of people go to doctors with complaints of sore throat. This uncomfortable condition can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection and usually resolves when the person fully recovers from the underlying illness.

To make your sore throat feel less debilitating as you heal, try to soothe it with these simple yet effective remedies.

Gargle with saltwater

Gargling with warm salt water is one of the most effective ways to relieve a sore throat. It is easy to make a saline solution: add half a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water and stir thoroughly (until the salt is completely dissolved). Frequent rinsing throughout the day (about once an hour) can significantly reduce swelling and relieve a sore throat by the evening.

Drink plenty of fluids

Another important step in treating sore throat and underlying medical conditions is to drink as many fluids as possible. Getting enough hydration will help your body fight infection and produce more saliva, which will lubricate a sore throat, preventing it from drying out and irritating it.

You can drink both warm and cold drinks, and in case of severe pain, doctors recommend eating a small portion of popsicles (yes, you can), as it relieves pain.

Use honey

A study by scientists published in 2017 found that drinking a tablespoon of honey twice a day can relieve sore throat and speed up recovery. It is best to combine honey with warm (not hot) chamomile tea, as it also helps soothe a sore throat.

Humidify the air in the room

Inhaling dry air can irritate and worsen a sore throat. If possible, install a humidifier in the room; if not, go to the bathroom, turn on the hot water shower to fill the room with steam, and then breathe for a few minutes. Repeat this process several times throughout the day.

Take pain reliever

Take a pain reliever if the sore throat becomes unbearable, and even the above remedies do not help. And if, in addition to pain, there is a high fever and problems with breathing and swallowing, be sure to consult a doctor.