Ways to help get rid of a sore throat

When people experience a sore throat, they normally want a quick fix for it. Unfortunately, that’s not always possible. But there are things people can do to help soothe symptoms while they last. Here’s where to start. 

In this article:

What might cause a sore throat?

Sore throats can be irritating, painful and scratchy. The first step to help get rid of them is understanding their possible causes. Here are a few reasons why someone might experience a sore throat:

• Allergies, tobacco smoke and other irritants: Some sore throats may be caused by allergies, chronic acid reflux (also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD), and smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Bacterial infections such as strep throat: Experts estimate that about 20 to 30 percent of sore throats in children are caused by group A strep (the infection that leads to strep throat). The same infection accounts for about 5 to 15 percent of sore throats in adults. Strep throat can be treated with antibiotics. A sore throat can also be caused by an infection of the tonsils (tonsillitis), which can be viral or bacterial.
• Rarer and more serious bacterial illnesses: Epiglottitis is a serious condition that can also cause a sore throat. But the Haemophilus influenzae type b (also known as Hib) vaccine, which is typically given as a vaccine series to all children between the ages of 2 months through 15 months, can help protect against it.
• Viruses like the common cold or seasonal flu: These are the most common causes of a sore throat.

Ways to help get rid of a sore throat

Most sore throats happen because of viral infections. Antibiotics won’t help a viral infection, but there are other ways to help ease the pain. Some relief options may include:

• Asking a health care provider about over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers
• Drinking warm beverages and plenty of fluids
• Gargling with salt water
• Sucking on ice chips, popsicles or lozenges (for children 4 years of age or older)
• Using a clean humidifier or cool mist vaporizer
• Using honey (for adults and children at least 1 year of age or older)

When to seek medical care for a sore throat

Most sore throats are caused by viral infections, meaning they’ll get better on their own. But it can sometimes be important to be seen by a health care provider. Anyone whose symptoms get worse or do not improve within a few days should seek medical attention.

People should also see a health care provider if they see blood in their saliva or phlegm, or if they experience difficulty with swallowing or breathing. Dehydration, joint swelling and excessive drooling (in young children) mean it’s time to be seen by a health care provider.

This is only a partial list of possible symptoms. Anyone with severe or concerning symptoms should see a health care provider. 

How to help prevent sore throats

While there is no magical way to prevent people from getting sick, there are things people can do to help protect themselves and help reduce the spread of germs. Handwashing is at the top of the list. Using soap and water works best, but an alcohol-based hand rub will also work. Some other important tips include:

• Avoid touching the eyes, mouth or nose
• Clean frequently touched surfaces
• Cover the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing
• Maintain physical distance from people who are sick
• Stay home when sick

Key takeaways

Allergies, bacteria and viruses can all cause throat pain. Only bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotic medications. But that doesn’t mean people dealing with other types of ailments can’t find some symptom relief — things like avoiding irritants, gargling with saltwater and staying hydrated can help improve symptoms of a sore throat. Still, it’s important to visit a health care provider if symptoms get worse or don’t improve. Health care providers will know how to deliver the right kind of care.