The sore throat
is a symptom of any medical condition. It should not be taken for granted since
it can be a precursor of a far more serious condition like whooping cough,
measles and chicken pox. The earliest signs of sore throat should be brought to
the attention of a physician for appropriate treatments. Here are some of the
signs to look out for and remedies to try.
Symptoms of Sore Throats
1. Painful or scratchy throat:
One of the most common symptoms associated
with the common cold or flu. But this condition may worsen and may become a
symptom of an entirely different medical condition. So, proper assessment is
important.
2. Pain and difficulty when swallowing
Pain is a result of swollen tonsils associated
with sore throat.
3. White patches or pus on the tonsils
White
patches or the presence of pus on the tonsils signal
a bacterial or viral infection.
4. Swollen, red tonsils
Swelling and redness is your body’s response
to infection.
5. Sore or swollen glands in your neck
Swollen glands are a sign that your body is
currently battling an infection or illness.
Home Remedies for Sore Throats
1. Saltwater solution gargle
Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of
warm water and gargle the solution. You can make it taste better by adding a
little sweetener like honey. Saltwater solutions can help loosen clogged mucus
and soothe the soreness of the throat by reducing the pain and swelling. It
also helps to flush out bacteria and other irritants that may cause the sore
throat. Just remember not to swallow it after gargling.
2. Lozenges
Other sore throats are also caused by dryness
on that part. So, sucking on some lozenges will stimulate your body to produce
more saliva. Saliva
helps to continually moisten the throat and prevents it from drying up. Other
lozenges have an analgesic component which is great for very sore throats.
3. More fluids
Fluids help keep the body hydrated and the
mucous membranes moist. This condition makes it better for them in fighting off
bacteria, viruses and other infections. If you already have a cold, water can
help keep the body cool, especially during bouts of fever and they also flush
out toxins out of your body. Aim for a light yellow-colored to clear urine as a
sign that you are well hydrated.
4. Tea
Teas come in different varieties. They are
effective medicines for soothing irritated or sore throats. Some even have
antibacterial properties which can help, especially if the sore throat is
caused by a bacteria. Teas are also well known for their ability to strengthen
the immune system and being a potent antioxidant against free radicals. Tea
with cayenne pepper is more effective for sore throat.
5. Rest
The most important remedy of all. The body has
an innate ability to ward off infections if it is inits optimum state. But a
lack of sleep, poor diet and other unhealthy lifestyle leads to a weakened
immune system.
If these remedies do not work, it is best that
you have your throat checked by a certified primary care physician
for better assessment and evaluation and that proper treatment may be given.