If allergies or postnasal drip is causing a sore throat, OTC antihistamines and decongestants may provide symptom relief. If a cough is causing a sore throat, an OTC cough syrup may help diminish the cough. Zinc lozenges have been found to decrease the duration of symptoms in patients with colds.
Which antihistamine is best for sore throat?
Medications. Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), may be taken daily during the worst times of the year to alleviate allergy symptoms. These medications work by preventing the body from mounting a histamine-based response to the allergens that attack your system.
What kills a sore throat fast?
Warm liquids — broth, caffeine-free tea or warm water with honey — and cold treats such as ice pops can soothe a sore throat. Gargle with saltwater. A saltwater gargle of 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon (1.25 to 2.50 milliliters) of table salt to 4 to 8 ounces (120 to 240 milliliters) of warm water can help soothe a sore throat.
How do you get rid of a sore throat from allergies?
Providing short-term relief for a sore throat can usually be accomplished through the use of simple but effective home remedies. Drink warm liquids, especially tea with honey or lemon, and chicken broth or bouillon. Cold liquids can also help. Suck on Popsicles, hard candy, or throat lozenges to soothe irritation.
Can a sore throat be from allergies?
Other causes of a sore throat include: Allergies. Allergies to pet dander, molds, dust and pollen can cause a sore throat. The problem may be complicated by postnasal drip, which can irritate and inflame the throat.
What is a good home remedy for sore throat?
Fortunately, you can use at-home remedies to soothe the pain and irritation.
- Honey. Honey mixed in tea or taken on its own is a common household remedy for a sore throat. …
- Salt water. …
- Chamomile tea. …
- Peppermint. …
- Baking soda gargle. …
- Fenugreek. …
- Marshmallow root. …
- Licorice root.
What is the best medicine for sore throat?
Acetaminophen or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen and naproxen can take the edge off many cold symptoms, including your sore throat. Make sure you follow the directions on the label.
Will strep throat go away on OWN?
If you have strep throat—which is caused by bacteria—your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic, such as penicillin. But strep throat goes away on its own in 3 to 7 days with or without antibiotics.
Is Listerine good for sore throat?
Anti-bacterial mouthwash can only reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth. When used daily, antibacterial mouthwash can actually help control the amount of bacteria in the mouth by killing the bacteria in the mouth but they are not effective in relieving a sore throat if it is of a viral cause.
How should I sleep with a sore throat?
You can also elevate the head of your bed or prop your head up on pillows or a sleeping wedge to reduce acid regurgitation into your throat during the night. If a bacterial infection is the cause of your throat pain, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic.
What drink helps a sore throat?
Drinking warm liquids such as caffeine-free tea with lemon juice and honey, warm water with lemon and honey, or warm soup broth can be soothing on a sore throat. Hot fluids also help thin sinus mucus, which allows for better drainage and decreased stuffiness, according to the American Osteopathic Association.
When should I be concerned about a sore throat?
“Sore throats are very common. While viral infections are the most common cause, severe or persistent pain may be indicative of a more serious problem. If your throat pain lasts longer than 3 weeks or if you are concerned, visit your local doctor.”
How do you get rid of strep throat overnight?
In the meantime, try these tips to relieve symptoms of strep throat:
- Get plenty of rest. Sleep helps your body fight infection. …
- Drink plenty of water. …
- Eat soothing foods. …
- Gargle with warm salt water. …
- Honey. …
- Use a humidifier. …
- Stay away from irritants.
Is my sore throat allergies or a cold?
Both allergies and colds may cause a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, a cough, and fatigue. Itchy eyes, post-nasal drip, and dark circles under your eyes are more common with allergies. Symptoms more commonly caused by a virus include sore throat, cloudy or discolored nasal discharge, fever, and general aches and pains.
How do I know if my sore throat is viral or bacterial?
However, about 15 percent of sore throats are caused by bacteria called streptococcus, or strep. Strep throat requires treatment with an antibiotic, while viral causes of sore throat do not.
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Viral Sore throat symptoms:
- Cough.
- Fever.
- Runny nose.
- Hoarseness.
- Body aches.
- Mouth sores.
How long does a viral sore throat last?
How long will the effects of a sore throat last? Viral pharyngitis often goes away in five to seven days. If you have bacterial pharyngitis, you will feel better after you have taken antibiotics for two to three days. You must take your antibiotic even when you are feeling better.