SORE THROAT~ Causes~ Symptoms ~Home remedies ~Prevention

SORE THROAT.

A sore throat is very painful but there is nothing to worry about as it can clear away within a week.

A sore throat can make it difficult to swallow. It can also feel dry and scratchy.

Sore throat is caused by viral infections such as colds and flu, and bacterial infections such as strep throat and bacterial sinus infection.

 Sore throat comes with various signs and symptoms such as: blocked, runny nose, cough,  headache,  fever, swollen tonsils, difficulty in swallowing, swollen glands in your throat ( strep throat), hoarse or muffled voice accompanied by a dry cough and a feeling to clear off your throat.

There are home remedies that can soothe the pain of sore throat until it goes away. However, it needs medical attention in severe cases.

Home remedies include ÷

1. Gargling of warm salty water:  I tested this and it worked wonders.  Mix half a teaspoon of salt with a half cup of water and stir. Gargle for 2-3 times. Do this till the pain disappear.

2. Use honey: This works wonders too.  Honey has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties that help soothes pain from sore throat and promote quick healing.  But please note that honey should not be given to a child under one year of age.

3. Avoid irritants:  Smoking, alcohol, spicy foods, second-hand smoke, acidic foods and drinks irritate your sore throat.

4. Rest: Sore throat pain can become worst as a result of shouting, screaming, singing, or even talking. Taking a break from these can help promote healing.

5. Use a humidifier or vaporizers:  Dry throat worsens sore throat. Adding moisture into your environment while sleeping will help moisten your throat and promote fast healing.

6. Use lozenges:  Sucking lozenges are safe ways to relieve sore throat pain. You can get it over the counter. 

However, if symptoms persist, visit a doctor to know the cause of the sore throat before taking any medication.

If the sore throat is can, used by viral infections such as cold or flu, he may prescribe antiviral drugs. If caused by bacteria, antibiotics will be prescribed.

Sore throat can be prevented through the following ways:

1. Wash your hands regularly before touching your mouth or eyes.

2. Cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing with tissues, dispose it, and immediately wash your hands.

3. Avoid catching the virus by avoiding close contact with people who have infection.

4. Regularly disinfect places touched during the infection.

5. Practice good hygiene.

©Nurse Ngozi.