The combination of unpleasant weather, strong temperature changes and tiredness often leads to rumblings in and in the throat.
There are several causes
Sore throat is due to inflammation of the mucous membranes of the throat. Its intensity is very variable and ranges from simple irritation and tingling to acute pain and difficulty swallowing. Sore throat may be accompanied by fever, swollen lymph nodes, stuffy nose, difficulty swallowing, red throat, or white spots in the oral cavity. The mucous membranes of the nose, throat and ear are connected to each other. This explains why a cold can be followed by a throat infection (pharyngitis or angina) and/or a middle ear infection (otitis media). Conversely, these ailments can also lead to colds.
No antibiotics needed!
More than 200 viruses can cause sore throat. Viral tonsillitis (70% to 90% of all inflamed tonsils) heals spontaneously within a few days and does not require any antibiotic treatment. The treatment? Painkillers or antipyretics (which reduce fever), or even anti-inflammatories. Usually everything returns to normal within 3-6 days. Local remedies such as lozenges, throat sprays or mouthwashes have a disinfectant effect and can provide additional relief from symptoms. Mouthwash has the advantage that the medicine remains in direct contact with the oral mucosa for a long time. Efficiency is therefore improved. The reference antiseptic is povidone-iodine (iso-Betadine Mouthwash 1%). Ask your pharmacist for advice on this.
But be careful: if the throat infection persists for a long time with fever, headache or severe pain, or if the sore throat recurs regularly, it is important to make an appointment with your doctor promptly.
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Other things that can really help
- In case of stuffy nose, every hour rinse and blow your nose it is essential.
- Air the rooms for 20 minutes (windows wide open), in every room, every day and in all weather conditions.
- Heat your home and rooms to a temperature between from 18 to 19°COtherwise the NKO mucous membranes dry out and become less able to defend themselves from microbes.
- Drink regularly to adequately hydrate the body.
- Maintain strict hygiene! Wash your hands before sitting at the table, but also after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing, etc.
- Provide one smoke-free environment.
- Eat fruits and vegetables. Take vitamin and mineral treatments. Taking vitamin C (up to 1 g per day) when sore throat has started can reduce the duration of symptoms.
This article was prepared in close collaboration with Viatris.
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