If your throat hurts what should you do?

If you have a sore throat, here are some things you can do to help relieve the pain and discomfort:

1. Rest your voice. Talking can irritate your throat and make the pain worse. Try to avoid talking for long periods of time, and whisper if you must speak.

2. Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated helps to keep your throat moist and reduces irritation. Drink cool or lukewarm liquids, such as water, tea, or soup. Avoid sugary drinks, as these can irritate your throat.

3. Use a humidifier. Humidifying the air in your home can help to keep your throat moist and reduce inflammation.

4. Gargle with salt water. Gargling with warm salt water can help to relieve pain and inflammation in your throat. Mix 1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds several times a day.

5. Suck on a lozenge. Throat lozenges can help to soothe and relieve pain in your throat. Choose lozenges that contain menthol or eucalyptus, as these ingredients can help to numb pain.

6. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to relieve pain and inflammation in your throat.

7. See a doctor if your sore throat is severe or does not improve. If your sore throat is severe, lasts more than a week, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, headache, or difficulty swallowing, see a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.