A sore throat can be one of the most painful and annoying parts of the flu, although it can be treated. A sore throat can be caused by a combination of factors, from dry tissue and inflammation to harmful bacteria. It can last for days and make eating or speaking very difficult. You can soothe a sore throat when you have the flu in a few ways.
Gargle With a Saltwater Mixture
One way to soothe a sore throat is to gargle with a saltwater mixture. This will help to reduce the inflammation in your throat and kill any harmful bacteria that might be contributing to the problem. Mix a half teaspoon of salt in a single cup of water. Gargle with this mixture for around 30 seconds to a minute. Gargle three or more times a day while you have the flu.
Hot Non-Herbal Tea
Another potential remedy is to drink a few cups of hot non-herbal tea. You want to use typical black tea or green tea instead of herbal blends. Put some honey in the tea to add to the soothing power of the drink. Drink the tea while it is as hot as you can tolerate. The heat from the tea will reduce inflammation and dull any pain your feel. The non-herbal tea will also provide antioxidants that can help your immune system fight the flu.
Breathe In Warm Steam
Breathing in warm steam is a way to get instant relief for a sore throat caused by the flu. The steam will relax your throat, reduce inflammation and hydrate your tissue. Start by boiling a pot water. You can then pour it into a container, place your face over the water and drape a towel over your head. Breathe in the steam deeply. This is a good solution when you have a very sore throat.
Avoid Smoke and Smoking
If you are used to smoking, then try to stop doing this or cut back while you have the flu. The smoke and chemicals from the cigarette are going to dry out your throat and increase any inflammation you are experiencing. Smoking also hurts your immune system, making it more difficult for your body to fight the flu. Avoid smoking and being around second-hand smoke.
Take Over-The-Counter Medications
A few over-the-counter medications can provide fast relief for an intense sore throat caused by the flu. The first is a typical painkiller available everywhere, known as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID. Standard NSAIDs are common painkillers that will reduce inflammation and suppress the pain you feel. Another option is a numbing spray. You spray this product into your throat, where it will immediately numb the area to provide temporary relief.
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