Strep Throat Treatment

Self-Care at Home

Treatment of pain is often the number one priority for any type of sore throat. Fever can increase fluid requirements, and painful swallowing can decrease fluid intake.

• Therefore, drinking enough fluids is very important. When it is hard to drink, it is important to decrease your body's requirements for fluid through rest and lowering any fever that is present. Choose high-quality fluids such as soup broth (which replaces both salt and water losses) and sugar-containing solutions (they help the body absorb the fluids more rapidly). Avoid caffeine because it can cause water loss.

• 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.

• Pain control treatment can help increase fluid intake. Although they may be rough on the stomach, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen such as Advil, and naproxen such as Naprosyn) are often more effective pain relievers than acetaminophen (Tylenol).

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

• Herbal teas containing ingredients such as licorice have shown in studies to provide significant relief from a sore throat.

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