During the off-season, a sore throat becomes one of the most common complaints. It often catches people off guard — on vacation, on a trip, or just on weekends when there is no opportunity to see a doctor. What to do in such cases, how to help yourself safely, and when self-treatment can be dangerous — explains the specialist.
Expert: Alexander Gurov, ENT doctor
When You Can Treat Yourself
If the temperature does not rise above 38 °C, there is no pronounced weakness, and no coating on the tonsils, you can manage with home methods. But if the pain is severe, there is asymmetry in the oropharynx, or you feel a decline in strength — you need to see a doctor.
What Helps Alleviate Pain
- Gargling with antiseptics — solutions with chamomile or sage will do. They gently reduce inflammation without disrupting the natural microflora.
- Warm drinks — tea, water, or milk with honey. The main thing is that the drink is warm, not hot.
- Short warming procedures — a warm shower or foot baths for 5 minutes will help activate the body's protective responses.
- Anti-inflammatory medications in the form of sprays or tablets — preferably with the active ingredient benzydamine, which helps relieve pain and reduce inflammation within a few days.
What Not to Do
Breathing over steam or applying dry heat (boiled eggs, salt, buckwheat) is dangerous. Such procedures increase swelling of the mucosa and can worsen inflammation, especially if there are purulent processes.
Does Stress Affect It
Yes, stress weakens the immune system and increases the susceptibility of mucous membranes to inflammation. Therefore, rest, sleep, and emotional balance are part of the treatment.
Can You Get Sick from Cold
Cold drinks do not cause illness by themselves, but if you are overheated or have chronic tonsillitis, cooling of the mucosa can provoke inflammation.
Is It Possible to Cure a Sore Throat in One Day
In the case of mild pharyngitis — it is possible to alleviate pain with complex medications like "Orasept". But with angina or bacterial infection, recovery will take several days.
