For a natural throat spray, choose one that includes echinacea and sage. Studies show that these are just as effective as OTC medications that contain lidocaine. [2] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Another option is a phenol 1. 4% spray, such as Chloraseptic. After spraying the back of your throat, hold the spray in your mouth for 15 seconds before spitting it out. You can also try benzocaine and menthol lozenges, such as Cepacol Sore Throat. Use 1 lozenge every 2 to 4 hours. Your doctor may prescribe a lidocaine gargle to help ease your throat pain. Gargle 1 teaspoon (4. 9 mL) to 2 teaspoons (9. 9 mL) lidocaine 2% viscous solution every 3 to 4 hours as needed. Always spit out the gargle when you are done.
Remember to read the label, especially if you’re taking a medication that also includes a pain reliever. For example, some cold relief medications contain cough suppressants and acetaminophen. It can be dangerous to take more than one medication containing the same ingredients. For example, if you are taking a cough medicine containing acetaminophen, don’t take Tylenol at the same time. Otherwise, you may overdose on acetaminophen.
Read product labels and don’t take medications that include caffeine.
You can also soothe your throat by drinking plain hot water (as long as it isn’t hot enough to burn your mouth and throat).
Gargling with saltwater will numb the pain of a sore throat and the salt can kill bacteria that may be making you sick. Gargling saltwater isn’t recommended for children under 6 years old.
Don’t lay back down when you have a lozenge in your mouth because this will increase your risk of choking. Sit up until the lozenge is dissolved. Try lozenges containing 7 mg of pectin, such as Halls Fruit Breezers. Dissolve 1 lozenge slowly in your mouth every 1 to 2 hours as needed.
You can also enjoy popsicles, ice cream, or frozen yogurt, which will dull the pain of a sore throat. Avoid milk if you’re running a fever, as that increases the chance of vomiting and an irritable stomach.
Some humidifiers have a cool mist or warm mist setting so you can control the temperature in your room more effectively. It’s also a good idea to hydrate yourself just before bed. Drink a glass of water or set one on your bedside table.
Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees can also help prevent nasal drainage from irritating your throat.
It’s also a good idea to sleep with blankets that you can take off if you get too warm. Keeping your room cool can help you sleep, but avoid using an air conditioner if you can. An A/C can dry out the air, further irritating your throat.
Taking a steamy shower is another great way to relax before bed since it will loosen mucus and can relieve other symptoms of a cold. Avoid looking at bright screens or listening to loud music. Lie on your side to keep post-nasal drip from irritating your throat. Minimize irritants in the room such as tobacco smoke or cold, dry air.
