How to Look After Sore Throats at Home
Key Information
The Soothing Toolkit: While your immune system fights the infection, there are four key tools you can use to manage the pain and scratchiness.
1. Painkillers: Paracetamol or ibuprofen are excellent for reducing pain and inflammation. Tip: Take them regularly for a few days according to the packet instructions, rather than waiting for the pain to become severe again.
2. Hydration: Keeping your throat moist prevents dryness and further pain. Warm drinks, like the classic hot water with lemon and honey, are comforting and provide energy.
3. Local Relief: Treatments that work directly on the throat surface, such as medicated lozenges, anaesthetic sprays, or gargling with warm salty water, can numb the pain and reduce swelling.
4. Rest: This is the tool that powers the others. Giving yourself permission to rest allows your immune system to recover faster.
What Happens Next?
For most sore throats, using this toolkit at home is the best course of action. Please continue with these steps to keep yourself comfortable while your body heals. However, if these measures are not helping, we are here to support you.
When to Contact Us
Most sore throats are viral and self-limiting, but click the link below and seek medical advice if:
- Duration: Your symptoms are not starting to improve after one week.
- Severity: The pain is so severe that the toolkit (painkillers and self-care) is not helping.
- Swallowing: You have significant difficulty swallowing fluids or saliva.
Further Information
Sore Throats and Delayed Antibiotics
For more advice on sore throats, please visit the NHS website.
Last reviewed: 27 April 2026
Next review due: 27 April 2029
Page created: 27 April 2026