A sore throat can be incredibly uncomfortable and debilitating. It can be a symptom of many different conditions, including the common cold, the flu, strep throat, and more.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to help relieve a sore throat quickly and effectively.

Stay Hydrated

One of the most important things you can do when you have a sore throat is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep the throat moist and can help ease discomfort. Some good options include water, warm tea, and broth-based soups.

Gargle with Salt Water

Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and may help reduce inflammation. To make the solution, mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Gargle for about 30 seconds before spitting the water out.

Suck on Lozenges

Sucking on a throat lozenge can help lubricate the throat and may provide some temporary relief from a sore throat. Look for lozenges that contain ingredients such as honey, menthol, or eucalyptus oil for added benefits.

Use a Humidifier

Using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and may help ease a sore throat. You can also try taking a steamy shower or simply breathing in the steam from a hot cup of tea.

Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

If your sore throat is causing significant pain, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may help. Be sure to follow the dosing instructions carefully and talk to your doctor if you have any questions.

Avoid Irritating Foods and Substances

Some foods and substances can irritate a sore throat, making it more painful. Avoid smoking or being exposed to secondhand smoke, as well as foods that are spicy, acidic, or high in sugar.

Rest Your Voice

If your sore throat is causing hoarseness or difficulty speaking, try to rest your voice as much as possible. Speak softly when you do need to talk, and avoid yelling or straining your voice.

Try Herbal Remedies

Some herbal remedies may help soothe a sore throat, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness. Examples include slippery elm, licorice root, and marshmallow root.

Kick Your Immune System into Gear

If your sore throat is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, boosting your immune system can help you fight it off more quickly.

Try getting plenty of rest, eating a healthy diet, and taking immune-boosting supplements such as vitamin C or echinacea.

When to See a Doctor

While most sore throats will go away on their own with a little bit of TLC, there are times when it’s important to see a doctor.

See your doctor if you have a sore throat that lasts longer than a week, is accompanied by a fever, or is so severe that it makes it difficult to breathe or swallow.