How to Soothe a Sore Throat

I have had many agonizing sore throats that are very distracting and painful. Here are some recommendations I would suggest to soothe the pain.

Suggestion: Salt Water
How it May Help: According to many people, this cleanses and helps heal a sore throat.
Directions: Take a glass of warm water and add salt to it. Stir the salt into the glass of warm water. Then pour the water into your mouth and gurgle for 30 seconds to a minute.

Suggestion: Ricola Throat Drops
How it May Help: These drops soothe my throat and also help restore my vocal chords when I am loosing my voice.
Directions: Go to your local drug store (my local Walgreens carries them), purchase a bag and pop one in your mouth. I believe the Original flavor (in the yellow bag) works best.

Suggestion: Rice Sock
How it May Help: The warmth of the rice sock seems to relieve the pain.
Directions: Buy a pack of brand new tube socks and buy a package of rice (regular rice seems to work better than instant). Take one of the tube socks out of the package and fill with rice. Tie a knot in the top of the tube sock. Now, heat the rice sock in the microwave for 1 - 2 minutes. I usually heat on high for 45 seconds, then turn it over and heat for another 45 seconds. This will make the rice sock warm and moist. Take the sock and place on your neck to help relieve the the pain.

Suggestion: Ibuprofen
How it May Help: Ibuprofen reduces swelling
Directions: Take it as prescribed. It will provide temporary relief and it may reduce the swelling in your throat which may in turn provide long term pain relief.

Suggestion: A Chocolate Malt or Shake
How it May Help: Besides the fast it just tastes good, it may help coat the throat and provide temporary relief for the pain.
Directions: Drink!
Possible Side Affects: This may actually help to create a longer lasting sore throat.

Suggestion: Heating Pad
How it May Help: Much like the rice sock, it will help provide temporary relief.
Directions: Turn it on. Lie on it. It may help soothe your throat.

Suggestion: Tea
How it May Help: It provides temporary soothing relief. The heat may help reduce the swelling and some herbs in certain herbal teas may help provide longer lasting comfort.
Directions: Make a glass of your favorite tea and drink.

Suggestion: Hot Cocoa
How it May Help: It provides temporary soothing sore throat relief and the heat may help reduce the swelling and inflammation.
Directions: Make a glass of hot cocoa in your favorite mug and sip to your heart's content. Smile!

Disclaimer: None of this advice was written by a doctor and you should always consult a health professional before trying the above advice.
This author does not purport to advise or dispense actual medical or psychological help. Nor do we dispense anything which one would need professional training and/or licensing. If you need help, please contact a licensed professional in your area.