How To Effectively Treat A Dry Throat

Gargle With Salt Water

Patients with a sore throat are often advised to gargle with salt water. This home remedy is believed to have been created before over-the-counter medications were available, and doctors recommend it as a way to reduce painful swallowing and other symptoms associated with a sore throat. A salt water gargle creates a salty barrier in the throat area, and it draws fluid out of the throat tissues. While gargling with salt water won't cure viral causes of a sore throat, research shows just gargling regularly with plain water could protect against upper respiratory infections. To make a salt water gargle that reduces throat pain, pour an eight-ounce glass of warm water, and add 1/4 to 1/2 of a teaspoon of iodized or table salt. Stir until the salt dissolves, and gargle with the water for at least thirty seconds or as long as can be tolerated. After gargling, spit out the salt water in the sink. Doctors recommend gargling with salt water at least twice a day, and patients can use salt water gargles more often if they wish. Adding a few drops of honey or lemon to a salt water gargle may make the taste more pleasant.

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