Sore throats are common this time of year. Whether indoors with wood burning, which dries our throats or outside pushing our body’s limits, sore throats are common and can be handled with simple procedures.
First, what causes sore throats?
Causes
If a serious disease does not cause a sore throat, as most do, it can be caused by overexertion or dry air. With dry air, the nasal cavities do not get the proper moisture. Additionally, one tends to breathe with his mouth open at night, causing a sore, dry throat in the morning. However, a sore throat can mean you are coming down with a cold or flu.
While a sore throat should be treated quickly so that it does not grow into a more serious condition, a healthy person does not need to panic and run to the emergency room for assistance at the onset.
Treatments
- Try honey, preferably with tea. Honey has healing properties, and black tea is full of antioxidants.
- Gargle with saltwater. The salt will kill the bacteria lingering in your mouth.
- Use a humidifier. Making the air moist soothes your dry throat. Also, try boiling dry beans. They are healthy and healing.
- Numb the pain. You can suck cold popsicles or throat lozenges.
- Rest. Sleep has a way of healing.
- Wash your hands often. If it is a virus, it can spread throughout the family, lengthening the duration for everyone.
Prevention
Many treatment suggestions align with prevention. For example, one should rest properly to prevent the body from weakening. Drink fluids, especially healthy ones with antioxidants. If the air is dry, try a humidifier.
Sometimes, you have to let the sore throat run its course. Do not stop these home remedies after a day. However, if the pain does not disappear after several days, you may want to see a medical professional.
