Sore Throat - Home Suggestions

1. Get plenty of rest and drink extra fluids.

2. Use acetaminophen (Tylenol and others), ASA (Aspirin and others) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin and others) for pain and fever. We do not recommend ASA for those under 20 years of age. (see page 99 for further advice). See page 6 for acetaminophen and ibuprofen dosage.

3. You may find that gargles or anesthetic (numbing or freezing) medications may reduce the pain and help you to eat. Using a warm salt water gargle or double strength tea may also help give some relief. Combining 8 oz of warm water with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 or 2 tablespoons of corn syrup or honey makes a soothing gargle.

4. Suck on a lozenge/cough drops (Halls) or hard candy to help soothe your throat.

5. A cool-mist humidifier is helpful. We suggest that you avoid ultrasonic and hot-mist humidifiers.Remember, there is no cure for the common cold.

After trying these suggestions, continue with the questions below.

Questions

Are you swallowing more easily with home therapy?