A sore throat involves irritation, scratchiness, and pain, often making swallowing difficult due to inflammation and dryness of the mucous membranes lining the throat. While a sore throat is not a disease itself, certain candies and lozenges can offer relief from these uncomfortable symptoms. This relief is achieved by lubricating the irritated tissues.
The Primary Mechanism of Sore Throat Relief
The comfort gained from sucking on any hard candy stems from increased saliva production. Holding a dissolving object in the mouth stimulates the salivary glands, releasing an increased volume of saliva. This moisture is swallowed, coating the dry, irritated lining of the throat and reducing the friction that causes the scratchy sensation. The continuous flow of moisture acts as a protective layer, and the sugars contribute to a mild demulcent effect, creating a soothing film.
Key Ingredients That Enhance Soothing
While any hard candy offers basic lubrication, certain added ingredients enhance the soothing effect. Honey is a common additive that acts as a natural demulcent, coating the throat’s mucosal lining. This coating helps reduce irritation and is noted for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Pectin, a soluble fiber, is another recognized demulcent, forming a protective film over the irritated tissue.
This film shields the throat from mechanical irritation, such as from swallowing or post-nasal drip. Essential oils, such as eucalyptus and peppermint, are also included for their sensory effects. These oils contain menthol, which triggers cold receptors and creates a cooling sensation that provides relief.
Distinguishing Simple Candy from Medicated Lozenges
The primary difference between a standard hard candy and a medicated lozenge lies in the presence of active drug ingredients. Simple candies are food products that provide comfort primarily through lubrication. Medicated lozenges, sometimes called cough drops, are regulated products designed to offer symptom relief. These options contain active compounds like higher concentrations of menthol, which acts as a temporary local anesthetic, or other topical anesthetics like benzocaine. These ingredients temporarily numb the nerve endings, directly blocking pain signals. Therefore, candy soothes through moisture, while a medicated lozenge interrupts the sensation of pain.
Important Safety Considerations and Red Flags
When using hard candies or lozenges, safety is important, especially concerning children. Hard candies pose a choking hazard and should not be given to children under the age of four, or to any child who is walking or lying down while consuming them. Monitoring consumption is also advisable due to the high sugar content, as frequent use increases the risk of dental decay. If a sore throat is severe, lasts longer than 48 hours, or is accompanied by red flags—such as a high fever, headache, rash, nausea, or difficulty swallowing—consult a healthcare provider.