When your throat is hurting, here's what may help.
6 soothers for a tender throat
Ice it. Suck on ice chips or an ice pop.
Gargle salt water. Stir 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of water.
Drink more liquids. Include warm (not hot) beverages, such as cocoa or tea with honey. (Don't give honey to babies younger than 12 months).
Consider over-the-counter relief. Options include acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain. Read labels carefully before giving medicine to children. And never give aspirin to children.
Keep a humidifier in the room. This will moisten the air that enters your throat.
Antibiotics? Usually not. That's because viruses, not bacteria, cause most sore throats. One exception is strep throat.
Talk to your doctor if you have questions about soothing a sore throat.
Reviewed 10/30/2023
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Sore Throat." https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/sore-throat.html.
FamilyDoctor.org. "Sore Throat." https://familydoctor.org/condition/sore-throat.
HealthyChildren.org. "When Is a Sore Throat a More Serious Infection?" https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/ear-nose-throat/Pages/When-a-Sore-Thoat-is-a-More-Serious-Infection.aspx.