Make sure you don’t swallow the saltwater! When you’re done gargling, spit it out into a sink. Young children are unlikely to be able to gargle, so try other methods for pain control with them.
Raw honey can carry bacteria that cause botulism. [5] X Research source Infants under the age of 1 should not be given honey, as their immune systems are not strong enough to kill the bacteria yet. [6] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Chamomile is probably the most famous tea for treating sore throats, and for good reason! It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Plus, it acts as a natural lubricant, providing relief if you have difficulty speaking or swallowing. [11] X Research source Green tea can help soothe your throat by reducing inflammation as well. [12] X Research source Peppermint tea naturally can slightly numb your throat, reducing pain. [13] X Research source
While you are infectious and feeling the symptoms of strep throat, you should stay home both to rest and prevent the spread of sickness.
If you want to avoid these irritants, you can wear a medical face mask to cover your mouth and nose. This would also decrease the risk of you spreading the sickness to others.
When choosing between humidifiers, there are a few factors that you should be thinking about. Look at how the humidifiers add moisture to the air, what size the humidifier is, if it makes noise, and what cost it costs. [19] X Research source Add 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of hydrogen peroxide or vapor rub to the water in your humidifier for additional relief. [20] X Research source
Be careful to avoid touching the hot water with your skin or letting the steam burn you. Allow for some ventilation by removing the towel if it starts to get too steamy or hot underneath.
Start with a low dosage, 200mg or 400mg every 6 to 8 hours. Follow the instructions listed on the medicine to check the recommended dosages. [24] X Research source
Take 650mg every 4 to 6 hours, but do not exceed 4000mg in one 24-hour period. [27] X Research source Taking acetaminophen can cause liver damage, so be very careful with dosages and follow the guidelines for maximum daily doses as listed. [28] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
For example, a Pectin 7mg lozenge can help relieve pain. Dissolve 1 in your mouth every 2 hours. [31] X Research source Lozenges are also available as sprays, gargles, and strips that can be directly applied to the back of the throat or on the tongue. Choose whatever works best for you.
Only use this spray for up to 2 days. Ask a pediatrician before giving the spray to children under 3.
You can find vitamin and mineral supplements at your local drugstore. Foods high in vitamin C include oranges, broccoli, peppers, and tomatoes. [37] X Research source Vitamin D can be found in dairy products, eggs, salmon, and oily fish. You can also get vitamin D from sunlight. [38] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Zinc can be found in meat products, shellfish, nuts and seeds, and whole grains. [39] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source
Never share leftover antibiotics. [42] X Trustworthy Source World Health Organization Health information and news provided by the World Health Organization Go to source
Do this any time you have a contagious illness.
Don’t eat for an hour after applying Lidocaine to your throat. [45] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
