We all know that a sore throat is frustrating and that sometimes it can indicate severe diseases. It is a very common health ailment especially during the cold months of the year. In most cases, you will experience a burning and scratchy feeling at the back of your throat. That is the first sign that you are getting sick and that a cold might be on its way.

However, there are numerous home remedies for soothing a sore throat when it comes. Here is a thorough guideline for you to use in an attempt to stop it before it becomes worse.

What Is a Sore Throat: Causes and Symptoms

A sore throat could be a sign of cold and flu, as well as many other possibilities. The throat is the first line of defense informing you of the need to take care of yourself. If you are experiencing a sore throat with a runny nose and other cold symptoms, then follow our guide, and hopefully, you will be better in no time.

Sore throats can be caused by both bacteria and viruses. If accompanied by other symptoms such as a cough, a runny nose, watery and red eyes, and sneezing, it may be a virus. Others reasons for a sore throat can be caused by irritants and pollution in the air, dry air, allergies, and smoking.

If you have symptoms such as:

• A cough

• Sneezing

• A runny nose

• A mild headache

• Fever

• Mild body aches
  
  

Then we recommend you contact your physician, as well as to following our sore throat remedies guide and the suggestions presented below.

The Most Successful Home Remedies For Throat Pain

These home remedies for a sore throat will help you soothe pain and other cold symptoms, however, if you are experiencing severe pain that lasts more than two days, call your doctor and get an appointment as soon as possible.

Follow these suggestions for treating sore throat:

1. Honey

Honey is one of the healthiest animal products and the best way to handle cold symptoms such as a sore throat. Add it to a tea, hot water or lemonade to reduce inflammation and cold symptoms. Honey includes antibacterial features that can ease a sore throat. According to different studies, it can help you relieve a cough, too, which makes it a great home remedy for a sore throat. It is important to keep in mind that it is not for toddlers and children under one year old.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Vinegar has properties that can kill bacteria in the throat and help you soothe the pain away. If you have a significant amount of irritating phlegm, mix one teaspoon of apple vinegar with eight ounces of water. You can also add one tablespoon of salt and gargle it until it gets better.

3. Baking Soda Gargle

Even though, most people use saltwater gargle, baking soda mixed with salt water can easily relieve sore throat issues. Gargle this mixture to kill bacteria and prevent the growth of fungi and yeast. According to the National Cancer Institute, you should combine 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/8 teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of warm water. Use it every three hours for a whole day, and you should notice a difference.

Sore Throat Home Remedies For Children

A sore throat is frustrating, especially when young children and infants have it. As a sore throat is the most common problem that happens to children and infants, you should consider these home remedies for a sore throat:

• Always have a humidifier in the child's room, because dry air can cause throat problems.
  
  

• It is essential to keep your children hydrated as much as possible, however, avoid commercial - juices with lots of sugar.
  
  

• Most medications such as candy cough drops are perfect for children but don't give them to your young children under the age of five.
  
  

• Don't give honey to children younger than one year.

Things To Avoid While Having Sore Throat

1. Fatty foods

If you woke up with a sore throat, it is important to leave behind foods that are high in fat such as full-fat dairy products, red meat, deep-fried foods, and baked sweets. Fatty foods are hard to digest and can dampen the immune system, which can ultimately worsen symptoms of a sore throat.

2. Acidic foods and citrus

We recommend you stay away from citrus foods such as grapefruit, oranges, tomatoes, and lemon. These acids can irritate your throat, which is not the point of the treatment. If you want to eat something with vitamin C, a good option would be red peppers or kale.

3. Spicy foods

Foods that contain chili powder, hot sauce, nutmeg, curry, and too much pepper can worsen and aggravate a sore throat. The best spice for a sore throat is fresh ginger that will reduce the inflammatory process inside your body. Another great spice is garlic because it reduces symptoms of a cold and helps you recover faster.

Important Tips To Prevent a Sore Throat

a. During the flu season (cold months), wash your hands often and keep them away from your nose, eyes, and mouth.

b. Purchase a humidifier or cool-mist vaporizer for your bedroom, since moisture in the air will prevent your throat from getting too dry.

c. If you don't have a humidifier, place a bowl of water on the radiator each night.

d. Quit smoking because it is one of the leading causes of a sore throat.

e. Always breathe through the nose rather than through the mouth. By doing this, you will naturally humidify the air you breathe.

f. Change your toothbrush frequently. Some people have sore throat problems because bacteria collects on bristles.

g. Try to boost your immune system during the flu season by adding herbs, vitamins, and proper nutrition. The most important supplements are vitamins C and E, minerals magnesium and zinc, and immune-boosters such as astragalus and goldenseal. While cooking, add garlic as much as you can as an immune system booster.

Summary

In this particular guide, we wanted to present a thorough explanation of how a sore throat happens, what causes it, how to treat it and finally how to prevent it if possible. Sore throat remedies are a good first line of defense, but remember that if you experience symptoms for a few days, it is time to consult a professional.

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