Health Tip: Help Prevent a Sore Throat

The arrival of colder weather typically invites a spike in sore throats.

While uncomfortable, a normal sore throat can be treated at home with rest and plenty of fluids. In more serious cases, a bacteria or virus can trigger a sore throat, which may require a doctor’s care.

The American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery suggests how to help prevent a typical sore throat:

Don’t smoke or hang around people who do. Tobacco smoke contains toxic chemicals that can irritate the throat lining.
If you have allergies, you’re more likely to develop a sore throat. Treating symptoms can prevent your throat from becoming irritated.
Avoid exposure to polluted air, which can contain tiny particles that can irritate your throat.
Promptly treat cases of sinus infection or post nasal drip.
If you live or work at a child care center, classroom, office, dormitory, prison or military base, wash your hands frequently to help prevent the spread of infection in these closer quarters.

Source: HealthDay