Spring is a little more than a month away, but pollen counts are already high in sunny Central Florida. If you’re experience a somewhat scratchy or sore throat, here are a few solutions you can try at home. If the sore throat is severe, stops you from eating or drinking normally, or lasts longer than a few days, come in to see us at Orlando Ear, Nose and Throat.
1. Mix 1/2 a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and gargle (don’t swallow). Gargling with salt water is a good way to reduce minor swelling in the throat and wash away excess mucus. You can repeat up to 3 times daily.
2. Honey can help to soothe and heal a scratchy throat. Here are several mix-ins to try with a mug of warm water:
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, honey to taste
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, honey to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, honey to taste
3. Steam can also help to soothe a scratchy throat, particularly if the soreness is due to it being dry. Fill a bowl halfway with just-boiled water and carefully lean your face over it, covering your head with a towel. If you have it handy, add a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil to the water. If this seems like too much work, taking a steamy shower or bath can also help.
