Have you ever had a sore throat? It’s a common issue we all face. Sometimes, it comes with white spots. We often don’t give it much thought. But, what if these spots signal a health problem? Are they danger signs? And how do we deal with them?
In this guide, we’ll explore all about these white spots. Let’s learn how to spot, treat, and prevent them. Here’s what you need to know to keep your throat healthy.
Did you know?
White spots on back of throat are common signs of infections. They can be bacterial, viral, or fungal. Let’s dive into each one to understand better.
Various factors can cause white spots on throat. They often come from infections. Ready to know more about their causes? Let’s break them down step by step.
Ever heard of strep throat? It’s a common reason for throat spots. This infection spreads through coughs or sneezes. Its main symptoms are a painful throat with white or yellow patches.
Also known as “mono”, this viral infection can cause throat spots. Along with these spots, you might also feel tired and feverish.
This condition is also known as oral thrush. It leads to white spots and white patches on throat and mouth
Herpes generally cause sores on the lips or private parts. But sometimes, they can also cause white spots on your throat and tonsils.
If you find any visible white spots in your throat, please visit a physician as the physician will usually perform a clinical examination, feel for any swelling in the neck and enquire about other symptoms to establish a diagnosis and if needed perform a swab or blood test.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
Early detection of health issues is always beneficial. This applies to any cause of white throat spots, too. Wondering about the general and specific symptoms? Here’s an overview.
Regardless of the cause of throat spots, watch for these signs. These include a sore throat, trouble swallowing, nasal congestion, and fever. Now, let’s focus on some specific symptoms related to certain health issues.
Strep throat often shows up as fever, swollen neck glands, throat redness, and swelling. Other signs include pain when swallowing, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
With mono, you could have fatigue, swollen tonsils, a sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. Of course, you would also see white spots in your throat.
Along with throat spots, oral thrush may cause a sore throat, pain when swallowing, and redness.
Herpes often leads to cold sores (oral herpes) and genital sores (genital herpes). Some infections may not show symptoms (asymptomatic). Both forms can lead to throat and tonsil spots. Extra symptoms linked to the first infection episode include tingling and itching around the sores, flu-like symptoms, sore throat, and urinary symptoms (especially in HSV-2).
Infections of throat require management by a doctor. Warm saline gargles or betadine gargles often help reduce the discomfort in some cases.
Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
If the throat spots don’t go away and cause you discomfort, consult a healthcare provider.
The diagnosis process will likely include a doctor checking your throat, doing a short physical exam, and asking about your health history and symptoms. After that, they might arrange for some blood tests and throat cultures. These will help to find out what’s causing your throat spots and decide on the right treatment plan.
White spots on throat is due to streptococcal infection, infectious mononucleosis, candidiasis(fungal infection), herpes and diptheria. However due to vaccination against diptheria it has reduced drastically.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
Remember that the treatment you need will depend on what’s causing the white spots in throat. The right choice, whether it involves prescribed drugs or simple home remedies for white spots on the throat, will be based on your healthcare provider’s diagnosis.
Only a throat culture can confirm a strep throat diagnosis. If it’s confirmed, your doctor will probably prescribe antibiotics. As well as these, your healthcare provider may suggest an over-the-counter pain reliever to help control symptoms.
Treatment for mono mainly helps manage and lessen symptoms. If symptoms are severe, the doctor might prescribe oral steroids. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary for secondary infections linked with mono.
For minor oral thrush cases, your healthcare provider might prescribe an antifungal drug that you swirl in your mouth and then swallow. For moderate to severe cases, stronger oral prescription drugs may be needed.
While herpes can’t be cured, your doctor may provide topical anesthetics for managing throat pain.
Also Read: Decoding The Causes Of Bumps On The Back Of The Throat
It’s always better to prevent health issues than to treat them. This goes for the issues that cause throat spots, too. Even if prevention depends a lot on the underlying cause, there’s one rule that holds for all cases: Good personal hygiene is key. Here are some steps you can follow to lower your risk of getting conditions linked to throat spots.
Regular hand-washing and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze can protect you from strep throat. Also, avoid sharing drinks or eating utensils with others to prevent the spread.
Avoid sharing utensils, drinks, and bottles. This can help prevent Mono, which is spread through saliva.
Good dental habits like brushing and flossing regularly can help you avoid oral thrush. This, along with rinsing your mouth after meals using mouthwash, can hinder the growth of infectious agents.
Barrier methods used during sexual activities can prevent the spreading of sexually transmitted infections like herpes. If you or your partner have repeated HSV-2 outbreaks, daily suppressive medication can limit the spread.
These spots could appear on the tonsils, too. While they’re mostly harmless, they are uncomfortable. Persistent spots can disrupt your daily activities. Let’s explore how to recognize related symptoms, possible causes, and easy treatment for white spots on throat that you can try.
These small, pearl-like growths cause discomfort when swallowing. They also cause bad breath and a sore throat with white spots
Many conditions like bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause tonsil spots. When food and debris get stuck, they form tonsil stones, which are seen as white spots.
How you treat these spots depends on what caused them. If they’re not painful, you can treat them at home with various remedies. If they don’t go away or they’re very uncomfortable, your healthcare provider may prescribe medication. In serious, long-term cases, surgery might be suggested.
At-home methods like gargling with warm salt water can help manage and get rid of tonsil spots.
Tonsil stones are another type of white spot that shows up quite often. You can clear them up from time to time with basic home care. Plus, good oral hygiene can stop them from forming.
Although they’re usually not harmful, if white spots on the tonsils last a long time, they could lead to other more serious problems.
Having tonsil stones often could increase your chances of getting tonsillitis. Rarely, if the stones get really large, they could cause breathing or swallowing problems.
Tonsil stone development is linked to certain risk factors. Smoking can cause inflammation in the throat, leading to pits forming on the tonsils. Drinking high-sugar beverages feeds bacteria living in the tonsils, leading to stone formation.
Also Read: Popular Remedies: How To Make Tonsil Stones Fall Out
White spots on your throat or tonsils can seem scary, but they’re usually just minor annoyances that go away in a week. However, if you have long-lasting discomfort and other symptoms, it might indicate a health issue that needs medical attention. With this essential knowledge, you can recognize these symptoms and treat them effectively for a speedy recovery.
Putting preventive measures and routines into practice can greatly cut the chances of these spots coming back. Keeping good oral health and staying vigilant over your daily habits can help you to avoid the onset of white spots on your throat.
White spots on the tonsils usually aren’t harmful, even though they may cause discomfort. However, if these spots last a long time or come with serious throat pain, high fever, or trouble breathing, you should see a healthcare professional at once.
Yes, you can! Although strep throat does cause white spots, other conditions can also cause them. These include tonsillitis, mono, oral thrush, and tonsil stones.
Often, you can handle tonsil spots at home with simple remedies like gargling warm salt water. If they don’t go away, your healthcare provider may prescribe medication, recommend specific oral hygiene practices, or, in more serious cases, surgery.
White spots on the throat can sometimes resolve on their own, but it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment if the spots persist or are associated with other symptoms.
Post nasal drip can contribute to the development of white spots on the throat as it may lead to the accumulation of mucus, bacteria, or debris. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Yes, acid reflux can potentially lead to the formation of white spots on the throat due to irritation and inflammation. Seeking medical advice is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Vaping may contribute to white spots on the throat as it can irritate and dry out the mucous membranes, potentially leading to inflammation. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advised for a proper evaluation and guidance.
White spots on the throat can be harmless and may result from conditions like tonsil stones or viral infections. However, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable for a proper diagnosis and appropriate guidance.
Yes, allergies can cause white spots on the throat due to inflammation and postnasal drip. Seeking medical advice is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of allergy-related symptoms.
Yes, a viral infection, such as the common cold or flu, can cause white spots on the throat as part of the inflammatory response. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advisable for proper diagnosis and appropriate care.
Yes, a sinus infection can lead to white spots on the throat due to postnasal drip and inflammation. Seeking medical advice is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of sinus infection-related symptoms.
Yes, certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as syphilis or gonorrhea can cause white spots on the throat as part of their symptoms. Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if an STD is suspected.
Exposure to mold can potentially lead to throat irritation and white spots, but it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and to rule out other causes. Addressing the mold source and seeking medical advice is advisable for comprehensive management.
Yes, infectious mononucleosis (mono) caused by the Epstein-Barr virus can result in white spots on the throat, often accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue and swollen glands. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended for accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
Bronchitis typically does not cause white spots on the throat. However, throat irritation and cough associated with bronchitis may lead to other symptoms. Consulting a healthcare professional is advised for proper diagnosis and management of bronchitis-related symptoms.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFM) can cause red spots or sores in the mouth and throat, but they are typically not white. If you observe unusual symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) typically does not cause white spots on the throat. It primarily affects the respiratory tract, causing symptoms such as coughing and wheezing. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advised for proper diagnosis and management of RSV-related symptoms.
Smoking can contribute to throat irritation, but white spots on the throat are more commonly associated with infections or other conditions. If you notice persistent symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate guidance.
White spots on the throat themselves are not contagious; however, the underlying cause, such as a viral or bacterial infection, may be contagious. It’s crucial to identify the specific condition and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the underlying infection.
The duration of white spots on the throat depends on the underlying cause, such as an infection or irritation. Recovery times vary, but if symptoms persist for more than a week, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
It is not recommended to pop or attempt to remove white spots on the throat, as they are often a symptom of an underlying condition. Trying to manipulate or remove them may lead to further irritation or infection. Consulting with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment is advisable.
Yes, a sore throat can be accompanied by white spots, which may indicate various conditions such as tonsillitis or strep throat. Consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Excessive drainage can contribute to the development of white spots on the throat, often attributed to conditions like postnasal drip. This occurrence is commonly associated with factors such as allergies, infections, or irritants.
To get rid of white spots on your throat, try gargling with warm saltwater, staying hydrated, and using throat lozenges. If the problem persists, consult a doctor for personalized advice and treatment.
White spots on the throat can signal various conditions, including infections, but they can also be associated with throat cancer. If you notice persistent white spots, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Throat infection is a common symptom of viral or bacterial infection. Throat infection may feel like an irritation, inflammation, eruption or a painful scratch in your throat. The pain gets worse when you swallow. The pharynx is also called the throat. It is a hollow tube inside the neck from behind the nose to the top of the windpipe and oesophagus. Hence, a throat infection is also called pharyngitis. Pharyngitis can affect the surrounding areas including the tongue, tonsils and roof of the mouth. A throat infection is called sore throat when caused by a virus. Strep throat is an infection due to bacteria. Throat infections can quickly spread from one person to another by close contact and sharing utensils and objects. These infections occur more during the colder months.1–4
Let’s know more about the natural remedies for throat infection, which you may try at home.
Although the most common causes are bacterial and viral infections.1 The causes of a throat infection may include-
Also Read: Home Remedies For Viral Fever By Dr. Siddharth Gupta
The appearance of symptoms in people may vary in severity and duration. You might feel irritation and pain in the back of your mouth, tonsils and neck. You might also experience swollen lymph nodes, fever, earache and headache.2,3 The following are the most common symptoms of throat infection:
The symptoms of a throat infection may show similarities to other health conditions; therefore, it is always better to check with your doctors for a complete diagnosis.3
Also Read: Home Remedies For Strep Throat By Dr. Rajeev Singh
Did you know?
You may try the following throat infection home remedies to ease your pain.
Honey may be the best home remedy for throat infections. Honey may have antibacterial and antiviral properties that might help relieve cough and cold symptoms. In addition, it may also have a soothing effect, making it a quick remedy for throat pain. Take one teaspoon of honey mixed with half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder before bedtime. This remedy might help clear up the respiratory passage. You may also use honey and clarified butter with hot fresh ginger paste to relieve sore throat and cough. 6
Ajwain leaves and seeds have been used in Indian cooking. Ajwain has been used in Indian home remedies for colds and coughs. It may have antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal and broncho-dilating properties. In addition, it may act as an expectorant (may help decongestion and remove mucous from nasal passages). It may also provide relief from coughing and sneezing.6
Ajwain seeds contain 2 to 4.4% thymol oil, which might be used for throat infections. Steep 2-3 teaspoons of ajwain in hot oil (coconut oil) for some time to allow all the nutrients to infuse in the oil. Upon cooling, use this oil to massage your chest, back and nose. It might help release the chest congestion.
You should consider garlic for throat infections. Garlic contains a compound called allicin which might help enhance the immunity of the body and help fight against viral infection. Some laboratory studies have suggested that garlic contains an enzyme alliinase which may be associated with the antiviral activity against various types of viruses.6
Chewing raw cloves of garlic might be a good home remedy for throat infections. Take garlic along with vegetables and hot soup as it may be difficult to eat whole garlic.
Ginger can be found in every Indian kitchen. Ginger contains unique compounds like zingerone and gingerols, which might prevent entry as well as stop the viral multiplication in the body. Fresh ginger may have antiviral activity against human respiratory viruses.6
You can make ginger tea by boiling a few slices of fresh ginger in a cup of water. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, then strain the water. Drink this ginger tea 2-3 times a day for relief.
Studies have suggested that pudina may have antiviral, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities. In addition, it may enhance the immunity, which may be beneficial in combating respiratory infections.6
To overcome the symptoms of throat infection, boil few mint leaves in one glass of water. Use this lukewarm water to gargle. You can also inhale the fumes; it might help with nasal congestion.
Studies showed turmeric (curcumin) had no toxic effects on humans. Turmeric contains a polyphenol called curcuminoid that may possess antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antifungal properties. Turmeric milk might be one of the effective throat pain remedies. Add some turmeric powder to hot milk, stir well and drink it 2-3 times a day. It might help boost the immunity to prevent and relieve symptoms of viral infection.6
Black pepper is a traditional Indian spice. It contains quercetin that might act as an immunity enhancer for managing cold and cough symptoms. It may have antiviral, antibacterial and expectoration properties that might help break down the mucus and phlegm deposition in the respiratory tract. It may also provide relief from nasal and sinus congestion.6 Take some hot water and add a bit of black pepper powder. Stir well and sip it slowly.
Basil or tulsi is an aromatic Ayurvedic herb. In the Ayurvedic medicine system, tulsi is called “Mother Medicine of Nature” and “The Queen of Herbs.” Studies have confirmed that tulsi may have beneficial properties such as antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), antipyretic (reduce fever), etc. Basil leaves might increase the production of natural immune cells in the body to fight viral infection.6
Tulsi tea might be an effective home remedy for throat infections. To make tulsi tea, take a handful of tulsi leaves and boil them in water. Allow the leaves to simmer for about five minutes and add ginger, cinnamon or honey if required. Drink this tea twice a day to help ease the pain.
Cinnamon may have antiviral, antioxidant, antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It may also benefit the immune system. A regular intake of cinnamon might reduce the chances of getting throat infections.6
Add a pinch of cinnamon and ginger powder and bit of honey to a small amount of milk. Drink this cinnamon milk couple of times a day to help with throat pain.
According to Taiwan Medical University, the roots of asafoetida may produce natural antiviral compounds. In laboratory studies, the antiviral activity of asafoetida has been demonstrated against the influenza A virus. Asafoetida may have sedative properties (induce sleep). It may also act as an expectorant, so may benefit in whooping cough. Asafoetida has a distinct odour which might deter or inhibit germs invasion.6
You may use asafoetida as an instant remedy for throat pain. Add a few teaspoons of asafoetida powder, ginger powder and a small quantity of honey to a glass of water. Drink this mixture twice a day to relieve sore throat.
Though there are studies that show the benefits of the given herb and home remedies in managing throat infection, these are insufficient. Therefore, there is a need for large-scale human studies to develop the true scope of the benefits of these home remedies on human health. Thus, these should only be taken with caution and never as a substitute for medical treatment.
Also Read: Home Remedies For Headache By Dr. Siddharth Gupta
The throat infection may not cause any serious health conditions. However, you might need to consult a doctor if you have a sore throat that lasts for longer than a few weeks.2 Following signs should guide you to visit a doctor for proper treatment.
To ensure proper treatment for throat infections, it is essential to consult a qualified doctor if the symptoms do not improve with home remedies.It is also important that one must not self-medicate with antibiotics without knowing the diagnosis and possible side effects.
Also Read: The Duration Dilemma: How Long Does Strep Throat Last?
Viruses and bacteria both may cause throat infections. The infection caused by viruses (flu or common cold) is called the sore throat, whereas the infection by bacteria is called strep throat. You might feel painful inflammation and irritation in your throat. The development of symptoms may vary depending on immunity. Usually, the throat infections ward off in a few weeks. Consult a doctor if your symptoms worsen or fail to improve. You may try certain home remedies for throat infections. Home remedies using kitchen ingredients might provide relief from throat infections. You can try turmeric, ginger, honey, black pepper, tulsi, garlic, cinnamon, mint, asafoetida, etc., as beneficial home remedies for throat infection.
Also Read: Simple Home Remedies for Tongue Ulcers
Throat infections are caused mainly by viruses (common cold or flu) and bacteria (group A Streptococcus). It may be called sore throat in case of viral infection and strep throat in case of bacterial infection.1,2
The treatment for throat infection will depend upon age, symptoms and general health of a person. A doctor might recommend drinking more fluids, gargling with warm salt water, throat lozenges and acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain and fever.3 The doctor may suggest an antibiotic in the case of a bacterial infection. It is important to take the antibiotics in the correct way as prescribed.
Asafoetida may have antiviral activities and also act as an expectorant. It might help in breaking down the mucus during whooping cough. Asafoetida may have a unique fetid odour which might act as a deterrent to germs.6 However, more research is required to know the benefits of asafoetida in humans. Therefore, you should consult a doctor before using asafoetida to manage a throat infection.
You can take a teaspoon of honey with half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder before bedtime. You can also take honey with clarified butter and hot fresh ginger paste.6 However, if the symptoms of throat infection persist even after taking honey, do not rely on honey alone. Immediately contact a doctor and get appropriate treatment for your sore throat.
Common symptoms of a throat infection include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen tonsils, redness or white patches in the throat, fever, headache and hoarseness.
Yes, some throat infections caused by viruses or bacteria can be contagious. For example, strep throat, which is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria, is highly contagious and can spread through respiratory droplets.
The duration of a throat infection depends on its cause. Viral throat infections may last for a few days to a week, while bacterial infections, like strep throat, may require antibiotics and can resolve within a week with treatment.
Yes, a throat infection can cause hoarseness and affect your voice. Inflammation in the vocal cords due to infection can lead to changes in voice quality. Resting the voice and staying hydrated can help improve vocal symptoms.
While it’s challenging to prevent all throat infections, you can reduce the risk by practising good hygiene, washing hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system.
Yes, smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke can irritate the throat and worsen a throat infection. Quitting smoking and avoiding smoke exposure can promote faster healing.
1. Harvard Health [Internet]. Sore Throat (Pharyngitis). 2020 [cited 2022 Jul 18]. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/sore-throat-pharyngitis-a-to-z
2. Cleveland Clinic [Internet]. Sore Throat (Pharyngitis): Causes & Treatments. 2022 [cited 2022 Jul 18]. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/8274-sore-throat-pharyngitis?view=print
3. Cedars-Sinai [Internet]. Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis. [cited 2022 Jul 13]. Available from: https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/p/pharyngitis-and-tonsillitis.html
4. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms – NCI [Internet]. Definition of pharynx. [cited 2022 Aug 20]. Available from: https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/pharynx
5. Centre for Disease Control and Prevention [Internet]. Sore Throat | Antibiotic Use. 2021 [cited 2022 Aug 22]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/sore-throat.html
6. Shrivastava R. Immunity boosters: Solutions from nature – Herbs and spices. J of Renal Nutri and Metabo. 2020;6(2):37. Available from: http://www.jrnm.in/temp/JRenalNutrMetab6235-6407825_174758.pdf
7. Toshi, D. S. A. D. B. D. N. Study to evaluate the effect of vitamin C supplement on pulmonary function test in COPD patients.. European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine, 2022; 9(3): 10715-10721. Available at https://ejmcm.com/article_18379.html
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Itching in the throat and soreness of the throat are common symptoms of a throat infection. However, the deadly COVID-19 infection gives us a lesson that never takes your health for granted, not even a throat infection or cold.
The throat irritation or itchiness can make it difficult for you to concentrate on your daily chores. It makes you very irritated that even you cannot even drink or eat. Sometimes it may lead to terrible throat pain that may affect your voice. Throat infection has a self-healing capability. But, in some severe instances, it is always better to see your physician.
Throat infection or pharyngitis is a painful inflammation of the back part of the throat (pharynx). The infection may involve some or all of the throat as per its severity. The most common cause of a sore throat (pharyngitis) is a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu.
The viral throat infection peaks up in the winters and early spring. This infection may be found in kids as well as in adults. The throat infection in children younger than 2 years old may due to a specific streptococcal bacterial infection.
The throat infection may be due to bacterial or viral infection. However, some other reasons may cause throat infections too. Here are some common causes of throat infection.
The throat infection treatment may be in two ways – one is with home remedies or by taking medications. This viral throat infection can treat itself, meaning that it has the capability of curing itself. However, if it fails to subside, then you need to see your doctor. There are some simple ways that you need to keep in mind to get rid of the infection.
Saltwater gargles are the most effective and first-aid solution for throat infection. Saltworks as an antiseptic that helps reduce infection and inflammation. Warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and break down secretions.
Mix ¼ teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Gargle at least two-three times a day. This solution will rinse off the infection and also loosen the accumulated mucous in the throat.
Hone is an effective bacterial killer that helps control and reduces the infection instantly. It also moistens your throat and decreases dryness. It is specifically beneficial in night dry cough.
You can make a honey-ginger tea that is the perfect combination to reduce your throat inflammation and infection.
Note: Do not feed honey or honey containing products to children less than 1 year of age, it may result in a serious reaction.
Whenever we have a throat irritation or cough, our mother always suggests having warm milk with a pinch of turmeric. It treats a sore throat, cold and even persistent coughs. When drunk regularly, it reduces pain and inflammation from a sore throat.
Ginger is a natural anti-allergic and decongestant remedy which works wonderfully to treat throat infection. It can break up excess mucous associated with respiratory conditions. You can mix ginger in tea for its instant effects.
Garlic contains a compound named Allicin which has powerful anti-bacterial properties. It kills germs and bacteria from the throat and subsequently soothes the inflamed throat. Chewing on raw garlic can be beneficial in subsiding the throat pain instantly.
Licorice root has been used since ancient times to treat throat infections. It has pain-relieving properties and can help boost the immune system to fight viruses associated with respiratory illnesses.
Mix licorice root with warm water for gargling for instant relief from congestion.
Herbal tea can be one of the best solutions for throat infections and pain. The herbals such as ginger, liquorice, peppermint and cinnamon have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
To make a herbal tea with 2 parts ginger, 2 parts cinnamon and 3 parts liquorice. Steep this mixture in water for 5-10 minutes and drink at least three times a day.
It’s not easy to manage throat infections in kids. Still, there are some tips when a kid get a throat infection –
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For mild throat infections, it may not be necessary to see a doctor, however, if the above-mentioned throat infection treatment options do not work you should consult your doctor at the earliest. If your throat infection is accompanied by a fever, breathing difficulties and swollen tonsils, you may need medical attention immediately. While herbs and home remedies may help in some cases, you can also opt for throat infection medicines at a pharmacy.
Read more about: 10 Incredible Health Benefits of Cinnamon.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
