According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, viral infections are the most common cause of sore throat. With proper home remedies, the pain in the throat can be cured within a week.
Generally, the following factors contribute to pain in the throat.
Bacterial infections such as strep throat
Viral infections such as the flu or colds
Breathe in dry air
Exposure to allergens such as dust, allergens
Exposure to smoke, chemicals and other irritants
An episode of acid reflux
Sudden blow or throat injury
Development of a tumor in the throat, tongue or voice box
What is salt water gargling?
Salt water gargling is one of the effective home remedies that can cure sore throat instantly. In this remedy, the person should gargle with a solution to cure the cause of the sore throat. Another advantage of gargling with salt water is that the solution can be easily prepared at home. In addition, this remedy is very cost effective.
Why does gargling in salt water cure sore throats?
Gargling is the most effective way to cure a sore throat. The reason is that it can reduce inflammation and cure infections. In case of a sore throat, gargling with salt water erases the irritants or infectious agents responsible for any throat infection. However, it is recommended to avoid using apple cider vinegar or essential oils when gargling.
How to Gargle with Salt Water
First, you need to prepare the saline solution to gargle. There are two main ingredients needed to make this mixture: salt and lukewarm water. In 8 ounces of warm water, add 1 / 4th or ½ teaspoon of salt. For best results, the individual can also add ½ teaspoon of baking soda.
Steps to Gargle Properly
Take the solution in your mouth as much as possible
Gargle this mixture so that it reaches the back of the throat
Rinse thoroughly around the mouth, teeth and gums
Discard the mixture
Prepare a chart and follow it for a few days to get effective results. Ideally, a person should gargle once or twice a day to ease the pain.
Benefits of gargling with salt water
Gargling with saline water helps relieve a sore throat. Sore throat is a symptom of various throat infections. Some of the medical conditions that can be cured after gargling are-
The allergies
By inhaling certain allergens such as pollen, dirt can trigger an allergic reaction in the body. These irritants can inflame the throat and cause a sore throat. Salt water gargling can expel irritants and reduce sore throats.
Dental health
Some infections can develop in the throat due to poor hygiene. Gargling with saline water helps remove harmful bacteria from the mouth. This improves oral hygiene and gum health. Consequently, the risk of gingivitis, cavities and periodontitis also decreases.
Sinusitis and respiratory infections
Some of the respiratory infections and sinusitis can cause sore throat as a symptom. There may be a viral or bacterial attack causing these infections. Some of the infections that cause sore throats are the flu, colds, strep throat and mononucleosis.
Canker sores
Commonly known as mouth ulcers, gargling salt water can regularly cure this condition. Ulcers cause pain and inflammation that can be alleviated by gargling with salt water.
Other remedies for sore throat
In addition to gargling with salt water to cure throat pain, there are home remedies that can also help. These remedies significantly reduce inflammation and throat pain. Here are some remedies that can be effective-
Taking a hot shower moistens the throat liners and provides a soothing effect on the throat.
Getting enough sleep helps the body prepare to fight off infectious agents. Finally, the pain in the throat also goes away.
Drink a mixture of warm water and a tablespoon of honey twice a day. The antibacterial properties of honey can cure infections and relieve pain.
Consuming throat lozenges that contain menthol can have a cooling effect on the throat. These also prevent dry throat.
Instead of crispy or hard foods, eat soft foods that have a soothing effect on the throat. Also take foods that boost immunity.
State
Is salt water gargling safe?
Salt water gargling is a safe home remedy to perform. However, people who tend to suffer from high blood pressure look for other home remedies mentioned above. You can also drink hot soups to relieve a sore throat.
Thus, children wish to gargle under the guidance of parents. Sometimes honey or garlic can be added to make it tasty.
Conclusion
Gargling in salt water is an effective remedy for treating sore throats. In addition to sore throat, it can also improve dental hygiene and reduce mouth sore. Acts as a natural alternative to mouthwashes. However, you should consult an ENT specialist if the pain persists for more than a week. Consult the Pristyn Care doctor to diagnose the appropriate cause of sore throat. Make an appointment today.