Saturated Nurse

Updated Monday, January 29, 2024-02:34

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Sore throat is something that is the order of the day. And in addition to being one of the most prevalent health problems in children, adults are not free from these discomforts either.

A problem that, in general, is not too serious but is very annoying, especially when we do such everyday things as swallowing or speaking. The positive part of this is that we have multiple ways to get rid of it or at least relieve it for several hours.

Why does our throat hurt?

The causes are multiple. That sore throat with which we woke up may have its origin in a viral infection, an allergy, exposure to tobacco smoke or even a bacterial infection such as those usually caused by streptococcus.

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Bacteria are behind 10% of sore throats in adults, something that rises to 30% in the case of children, and only in these cases will we need to take antibiotics.

Can it hurt from the cold?

What is popularly known as "catching cold", which is nothing more than exposing our body to a low temperature by not using the appropriate clothing to protect it, can be the cause of that sore throat.

The cold, dry air of winter will dry out the mucosa of the oropharynx and pharynx and this will cause inflammation and pain. That is why it is so important to try to breathe through the nose whenever possible, since the corridors through which that cold air will circulate in our sinuses before going down to the pharynx will be responsible for warming and humidifying that air.

Do eucalyptus candies work?

They are perhaps one of the most classic remedies, that mint or eucalyptus candy that is used to soften the throat, but their effectiveness is scarce and limited. By sucking them we will feel relief, true, but the secret is that they increase saliva production and this will lubricate that dry or irritated throat momentarily. In addition, menthol or licorice will provide a sensation of freshness that helps us feel better for a while.

And herbal or honey candies?

The effect is similar to that of menthol candies or any other candy. Even those that actually contain herbal extracts or honey, which are not all, are going to have a very brief effect that is limited to that temporary lubrication of the throat.

Do lozenges work?

The lozenges that we find in the pharmacy are drugs that contain different elements in their composition that can help us relieve a sore throat. Unlike what happens with candy, lozenges from the pharmacy are medicines and therefore we have to respect the times between one intake and another.

They generally contain calming, anesthetic and antiseptic elements such as chlorhexidine, lidocaine or enoxolone. We can also find some that contain limited action antibacterials.

Can gargling help?

Of course yes, and by doing them, firstly we are going to moisten the oropharynx and secondly we are helping to carry away possible traces of infection. A good option may be to gargle with salt water, as it acts as a small disinfectant.

Does drinking honey relieve a sore throat?

We have some scientific evidence about the healing properties of honey, so it can be a good option when looking to calm that irritation and inflammation of the throat. We should not abuse it since it has a high sugar content, but it is certainly a recommended option.

Throat sprays

In pharmacies we will find this option to take into account due to its effectiveness: sprays with an applicator to shoot the drug directly onto our oropharynx. They are a recommended option, since they help relieve sore throat thanks to the components they contain that have an antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect.