sore throat treatment

A sore throat is a common infection that is usually not a cause of worry. A typical sore throat will go away in a week and can be managed at home. Common sore throat treatments include home remedies, over-the-counter, or prescription sore throat medicine.

Symptoms and causes of sore throat

· Painful, scratchy or dry throat

· Pain in the throat when swallowing

· Swollen glands in the neck

· Mild cough

The cause of sore throats are either viruses or bacterial infections and may be accompanied by other symptoms.

When to seek medical attention

Medical help is usually not needed if you are suffering from a sore throat. However certain conditions are worth giving extra attention such as:

· Severe symptoms

· Symptoms that are getting worse and do not get better after a few days

· Often recurring sore throat

· Weak immune system for people taking medication to suppress their immune system, undergoing chemotherapy, or suffering from another illness.

Common sore throat treatments

You can shorten the duration of a sore throat or soothe its symptoms by adhering to specific measures.

· Take ibuprofen or paracetamol (children younger than 16 should not take aspirin, paracetamol is better for children)

· Drink a lot of water, cool or warm drinks but avoid hot beverages

· Eat soft food

· Avoid smoking or smoky areas

· Gargle with warm salty water

· Get plenty of rest

Products such as medicated lozenges, sprays, and mouthwash available in pharmacies may also help improve sore throat symptoms.

These Mouthwash Can Help You Feel Better

  1. Listerine Mouthwash Freshburst 500ML
  2. Corsodyl Mouthwash 300ML
  3. Listerine Mouthwash Coolmint 500ML
  4. Listerine Mouthwash Spearmint 250ML
  5. Corsodyl Mouthwash Mint 300ML
  6. Wisdom Fresh Effect Mouthwash Coolmint 500ML

What to find in a sore throat mouthwash

If you prefer using a mouthwash to manage sore throat symptoms, those containing Benzydamine are commonly used.

Benzydamine is a non-steroidal and anti-inflammatory drug that helps reduce swelling. You can get it on a prescription from your local pharmacy.

Facts to remember

· Using Benzydamine may cause a numbing or stinging sensation in your mouth

· It is used for up to 7 days

· Benzydamine mouthwash contains alcohol and should not be given to children, especially under 13.

· Do not use Benzydamine if you are allergic to NSAIDs such as aspirin or ibuprofen.

· Do not use if you are diagnosed with liver disease or have had it in the past

· Do not give to people with epilepsy or seizures

· Do not take if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to get pregnant

You can expect sore throat symptoms to improve minutes after gargling Benzydamine, and its effects will likely last for a few hours.