A sore throat can be a common and uncomfortable symptom of COVID-19, often causing pain and a scratchy sensation in the throat. This discomfort can make speaking or swallowing challenging. While not exclusive to COVID-19, it frequently accompanies the infection, sometimes appearing as an early indicator. This article provides practical approaches to alleviate this discomfort.
Effective At-Home Comfort Measures
Simple measures can provide relief for a COVID-19 sore throat. Gargling with salt water is a widely recommended practice that can soothe the throat and may help reduce viral load. To prepare, combine about half a teaspoon of salt with eight ounces of warm water, stirring until dissolved. Gargle for approximately 10 seconds before spitting it out. This method works by drawing fluid from inflamed tissues, reducing swelling. Studies indicate that saltwater gargles can relieve sore throat pain as effectively as some prescription numbing agents.
Drinking warm liquids also offers comfort. Options such as warm tea, broth, or soups help soothe inflammation and thin mucus. Adding a teaspoon of honey to warm tea can enhance the soothing effect, as honey helps alleviate cough and throat pain. Honey possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that may support the immune system.
Using a humidifier introduces moisture into the air, which can alleviate dryness and irritation in the throat. Moist air helps reduce inflammation in the airways and thins mucus, contributing to easier breathing and more productive, less painful coughs. Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 40% and 60% can also help keep throat and nasal passages hydrated, promoting better sleep and faster healing. Taking a hot shower can similarly provide moist, steaming air that helps soothe a sore throat.
Staying well-hydrated by drinking fluids like water, juice, or tea is important. This helps prevent dehydration, which can worsen throat discomfort, and aids in thinning mucus. Resting your voice contributes to healing by reducing strain on the vocal cords. Avoiding whispering is beneficial, as it can place more strain on the vocal cords than normal speech.
Over-the-Counter Medications for Relief
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can effectively manage the pain and inflammation associated with a COVID-19 sore throat. Acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, and ibuprofen, found in Advil or Motrin, are both effective pain relievers and fever reducers. For adults, a typical dose of acetaminophen is 650 mg every 4 to 6 hours, with a maximum daily dose not exceeding 3250 mg to prevent liver damage. Ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can help reduce both pain and inflammation. Both medications can provide several hours of comfort.
Throat lozenges and sprays offer direct, localized relief by temporarily numbing the throat or providing a soothing coating. Lozenges often contain active ingredients that create a cooling sensation or a local anesthetic effect. Sucking on lozenges also stimulates saliva production, which helps lubricate the throat. Sprays containing local anesthetics can provide quick pain relief by numbing the affected area.
If nasal congestion accompanies the sore throat, decongestants can help clear nasal passages, making breathing easier. Oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) or phenylephrine (Sudafed PE), and nasal sprays such as oxymetazoline (Afrin), work by reducing fluid. Always follow label directions and be aware of potential interactions.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many COVID-19 sore throat symptoms can be managed at home, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical attention. Seek immediate care if you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swallowing. Persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, or an inability to wake up or stay awake are emergency warning signs.
Other concerning symptoms include a high-grade fever that persists or does not respond to OTC medications. If your symptoms worsen significantly, or your sore throat does not improve within a few days or becomes severely painful, contact a healthcare provider. Bluish lips or face can indicate a lack of oxygen and necessitate emergency care. Early consultation can help determine if additional testing or prescription treatments, such as antivirals, are appropriate.