Sore throat is pain, scratchiness or irritation of the throat that is usually caused by a viral infection but sometimes it can also be caused by cold dry air and irritants like air pollution and cigarette smoke.

Sore throat is usually benign manifestation of a disease and can resolve on its own. However, it can become bothersome and affect your daily life:

It can make you uncomfortable.

• The pain and irritation affect our mood and even how we interact with other people.

You will have a hard time swallowing.

• Sore throat can result to difficulty in swallowing, hindering you from enjoying a delicious meal.

You will have trouble speaking.

• Sore throat can cause a hoarse or muffled voice. Engaging in meetings can be a daunting task.

            It is usually accompanied by colds and fever.

• Infections causing sore throat might lead to other signs and symptoms. Runny nose, cough and colds can really get the better of you, and just ruin a day or even your week.

How can a sore throat be relieved? Here are some home remedies you can follow:²

1. Salt and water solution gargle
   1. This time-tested remedy for sore throat may help relieve pain and reduce swelling. Just dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle the solution. The solution should not be swallowed or reused. Depending on the pain, you can gargle once every hour to relieve pain.
2. Add honey to your drink
   1. Honey helps temporarily relieve irritation in the throat. You can add it to your warm drink or straight from the spoon. Studies show that those who consume honey
3. Drink black tea
   1. A warm cup of black tea may help relieve sore throat. It contains tannins that help shrink swollen tissues in a sore throat.
4. Use a humidifier at home
   1. Since dry air also causes a sore throat, a humidifier may help by adding moisture to your room.

If these just don’t do the job, you may also try Sorexidine, an oral gargle solution that contains Chlorhexidine digluconante which kills germs causing sore throat and other oropharyngeal infections.

While viral infections are the most common cause, severe or persistent pain may be indicative of a more serious problem. If your throat pain lasts longer than three weeks or if you are concerned, visit your local doctor.

1. “Sore throat what you need to know” [Retrieved from: https://www.mydr.com.au/respiratory-health/sore-throat-what-you-need-to-know. Last accessed on August 6, 2019]
2. “How a sore throat is treated” [Retrieved from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/treatments-for-sore-throat-89954. Last accessed on August 6, 2019]
3. “When to worry about a sore throat” [Retrieved from: https://www.bcm.edu/news/ear-nose-and-throat/when-to-worry-about-a-sore-throat