Sore throat

A sore throat is an inflammation of throat and is very common. It is usually caused by a viral infection, and often develops with a cold or the flu. It may also be a symptom of mononucleosis, mumps, laryngitis, or tonsillitis. In addition to a painful throat, patient may also have difficult swallowing, a mild cough, hoarse voice, fever, headache, and enlarged glands in front of neck. Normally, the soreness gets worse over a period of 2-3 days, and then begins to clear up. 

Home Remedies

• Gargle with hot water mixed with 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder and a
     pinch of salt.
• Drink 1 cup of hot milk boiled with 1/2 teaspoon turmeric.
• Take 1 teaspoon of powdered cinnamon, a pinch of pepper, and two
     teaspoons of honey in a glass of boiled water.
Drink water boiled with basil leaves, and also use to gargle to relieve sore 
   throat.

 Do's

• Rest your voice.

• Drink at least 8 glasses of fluids a day. Warm drinks with honey and lemon
      are particularly soothing.
• Gargle with a salt solution. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of
      water, gargle for 20-30 seconds and spit it out.

 Don’ts

• Avoid talking too much or straining your voice.

• Avoid undiluted citrus juices as they are acidic and may irritate throat.

• Don’t use mouthwash containing alcohol.

• Avoid smoky or polluted environments.

• If you smoke, stop it.
• Avoid fermented foods and dairy products such as cheese, yogurt.

 See Doctor                                    

• Sore throat becomes more severe or has not got better after 5 days.

• Having very difficulty in swallowing.

• Develops other symptoms such as joint pain or swellings.