Get rid of painful swallowing and sore throat.

A painful swallowing and sore throat can be very uncomfortable, and there are several things you can do to find relief. It’s important to remember that if your symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning signs, you should seek medical attention.  

Here’s a breakdown of common remedies and when to see a doctor:

Home Remedies for Sore Throat and Painful Swallowing:

• Gargle with Saltwater:
  • Dissolve 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water.  
  • Gargle for 30-60 seconds, then spit the water out.  
  • Repeat several times a day. This can help reduce inflammation and pain.  
• Stay Hydrated:
  • Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal tea, and clear broths.  
  • This helps keep your throat moist and prevents dehydration.  
• Warm Liquids:
  • Warm liquids like tea with honey and lemon, or warm broth, can soothe a sore throat.  
• Cool Treats:
  • Cold treats like ice pops or ice cream can numb the throat and provide temporary relief.  
• Honey:
  • Honey has natural soothing properties and can help coat the throat.  
  • (Note: Do not give honey to children under 1 year old.)
• Humidifier:
  • Using a humidifier or taking a hot shower can add moisture to the air and help soothe a dry, irritated throat.  
• Rest:
  • Getting plenty of rest is essential for your body to fight off infection.  
• Over-the-counter pain relievers:
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce pain and fever.  
• Lozenges or throat sprays:
  • These can sometimes provide temporary relief.

When to See a Doctor:

It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe sore throat: Especially if it lasts longer than a week.
• Difficulty swallowing: That prevents you from eating or drinking.
• Difficulty breathing.
• High fever.
• Swollen glands in your neck.
• White patches on your tonsils.  
• Rash.
• Blood in your saliva or phlegm.
• Symptoms that worsen rapidly.
• If you have a weakened immune system.

Possible Causes:

A sore throat and painful swallowing can be caused by:

• Viral infections: Such as the common cold, flu, or mononucleosis.  
• Bacterial infections: Such as strep throat.
• Allergies.
• Acid reflux.
• Dry air.
• Irritants: Such as smoke or pollution.

By following these tips and knowing when to seek medical attention, you can effectively manage a sore throat and painful swallowing.