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Sore Throat Treatment

Self-Care at Home

Treatment of pain is often the number 1 priority if you have a sore throat.

• Throat lozenges often prove inadequate for all but the most minor cases.

• Gargling with salt water is sometimes helpful. (You may try mixing table salt with warm water and gargling.)

• Although they may be rough on the stomach, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen) are often more effective pain relievers than acetaminophen (Tylenol).

• Drinking enough fluids is very important.

• A fever can increase fluid requirements, and painful swallowing can decrease fluid intake.
• When it is hard for you to drink, it is important to decrease your body's requirements for fluid through rest and lowering any fever.
• Pain treatment can help increase fluid intake.
• Choose high-quality fluids such as soup broth (replaces both salt and water losses) and sugar-containing solutions (they help your body absorb the fluids more rapidly).
• Avoid caffeine because it can cause water loss.

• Getting extra sleep can promote more rapid recovery, especially if a virus is the cause. Malaise (a general feeling of illness) is the body's cry for rest.