How to Relieve Pain From a Sore Throat

by Dr Susan Jewell MD

We all get sore throats, especially during certain times of the year. They are often painful and can take up to a week to heal. The irritation and burning sensation from sore throats are common complaints that can interrupt sleep patterns, increase stress and interfere with work.
This article will show you some ways to find relief from a sore throat.

1 Symptoms of sore throat can vary from mild irritation to painful swallowing sensations and constant coughing. Cough drops and lozenges containing phenol can give temporary relief from the symptoms of sore throat.

2 You can buy mouth sprays containing phenol, for example, Chloroseptic to find relief. This is a topical spray and only gives temporary relief to the affected area.

3 Use a mouth gargle to find relief. A great cheap and fast way to help a sore throat is to mix a teaspoon of salt with water and gargle with the mixture. Alternatively, you can squeeze a lemon and mix the juice with a glass of warm water and use as a mouth rinse.

4 The irritation from a sore throat can be exacerbated by dry humidity in a room. Keep a humidifier in the room, especially in the bedroom and keep it running throughout the night. This will help keep the room from becoming too dry.

5 Drink plenty of fluids to replenish the body and prevent dehydration and dry throat. Avoid certain beverages that will increase fluid loss, for example, caffeinated beverages and alcohol. Avoid milk drinks as this will form a thick mucus layer in the lining of the throat area causing more irritation and coughing.