How to Relieve a Scratchy Throat
Normally, most people take swallowing for granted. But when your throat is scratchy and dry, you are painfully aware of every swallow and throat sensation. A dry climate, allergies, infection or dehydration can cause this condition. Finding immediate relief is a priority. If self-care remedies do not work, seek medical attention to find out the exact cause and best course of treatment.
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Things You'll Need
- Mug
- Water bottle
- Salt
- Honey
- Lemon juice
- Hard candy or cough drops
- Cool-mist humidifier
Instructions
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Drink plenty of water to soothe a dry and scratchy throat. Take small sips from your own water bottle throughout the day. Fluid can reduce congestion and inflammation too. If dehydration is the cause, water is your best solution.
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Suck on a hard candy or cough drop. Sometimes the environment or allergens can irritate the throat. A piece of candy, mint or cough drop with soothing ingredients, such as honey, can be a huge relief. If you don't want something too sweet, try a sugar-free version.
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Gargle with salt water. Put 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. of salt in a cup of warm water (about 8 oz.). Mix together so the salt dissolves. Take sips and gargle at the back of your throat. Spit out the solution. Repeat several times. If your scratchy throat is due to allergens or infection, this can temporarily relieve symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com.
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Drink a soothing tea. HomeRemedies.com suggests chamomile with lemon. To make a lemon/honey tea combination, fill a mug with water and a teaspoon of honey. Microwave for about a minute. Then add a splash of lemon juice.
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Use a cool-air humidifier to ease scratchy throat symptoms. Place the humidifier in your bedroom where you sleep or close by where you work. Be sure to change the water often and clean the humidifier to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
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Get plenty of rest. A scratchy throat may be an indicator that you are worn down or fighting off an infection. Rest and relaxation will allow your immune system to do its job of attacking the virus or bacteria underlying the infection.
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Tips & Warnings
Antibiotics will only work if the throat issue is related to a bacterial infection.
Stay away from cold medications if you can, especially for children, recommends Mayo Clinic.
Practice good hygiene during cold and flu season, such as washing your hands and sneezing into your elbow.
A scratchy throat that does not go away could be a symptom of a more serious condition. Seek medical advice in this case.
References
- Photo Credit tea image by Horticulture from Fotolia.com
