Simple Sore Throat Remedies (To Try First)

If that scratchy throat hurts when you swallow, you can try some simple home remedies, suggests the NIH News in Health.

*  Drink hot tea with lemon or hot soup.

*  Keep your throat moist with lozenges or hard candies (not for children age 5 and younger).

*  Gargle with warm salt water.

*  Cold liquids, ice chips, or popsicles can numb the pain. Throat sprays and over-the-counter pain relievers can help too.

*  Use a humidifier or vaporizer, especially in the bedroom when sleeping, to keep air from getting too dry.

But if your sore throat is severe, if you have a fever or swollen glands, you might have strep throat, a common bacterial infection. Contact your doctor.