While a sore throat is a common illness or infection, it can cause great pain and discomfort to the patient. A sore throat can cause pain and uneasiness while swallowing and lead to fever, bacterial infection, and other illnesses.

A sore throat can cause so many other medical issues that need immediate treatment and care. In addition to prescribed medications by healthcare providers, many home remedies can effectively soothe a sore throat. Here is all you need to know regarding what works and what doesn't when it comes to curing a sore throat:

Antibiotics and OTC Medications

An infection from a virus often lasts five to seven days and doesn't require medical attention. A viral infection cannot be treated with antibiotics. Many people use acetaminophen or other mild painkillers to reduce pain and fever. To relieve pain and uneasiness, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers.

Your doctor or pediatrician will recommend antibiotics if a bacterial infection is the root of your sore throat. Even if the symptoms have subsided, you must complete the entire course of antibiotics as directed. The illness may worsen or spread to other body areas if the treatment is not taken completely as prescribed. The risk of rheumatic fever and severe kidney inflammation increases if the complete course of antibiotics prescribed for strep throat is not taken. Discuss what to do with your doctor or pharmacist if you forget to take a dose.

Home Remedies

Here are some home remedies that almost work to heal and cure every sore throat:

• Warm salt water gargling helps ease sore throats and dissolve mucus. It is also known to aid in the destruction of throat bacteria.
• A typical home cure for sore throat symptoms is honey combined with tea or consumed alone.
• Although the saltwater gargle is more popular, gargling with a baking soda-saltwater solution also can soothe sore throats. This oral treatment can eradicate bacteria and stop the development of fungus.
• The power of peppermint to freshen the breath is well known. A recent study found that it has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory activities.
• Tea made from the naturally calming chamomile flower has long been used medicinally, notably to soothe sore throats. It is astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant.
• There are numerous ways to consume the herb fenugreek. Fenugreek seeds, fenugreek oil, and fenugreek tea are all edible herb forms. Fenugreek tea is a popular sore throat treatment.
• Moreover, garlic has inherent antimicrobial qualities. Garlic contains allicin, a substance known for its capacity to combat infections.

While all the above-mentioned home remedies are useful, they don't work out for every person. This is why visiting an urgent care center is crucial to seek immediate medical care from skilled and professional healthcare providers.

Conclusion

A sore throat can be quite painful and severe at times. Using prescribed or over-the-counter medications depends on a person's sore throat condition, causes, and symptoms. In this case, visiting an urgent care center is the best option to understand what will work for you and what will not.