A pharmacist has warned that drinking boiling hot beverages can make a sore throat worse and prolong recovery, while highlighting several simple remedies that may speed up healing.
Sore throats are a common symptom of winter illnesses such as colds and flu, and the discomfort can be difficult to ignore. Anum Ahmed, known as @Pharmacist.anum on TikTok, said that some of the most overlooked home treatments could be more effective than people assume, potentially reducing the need for over-the-counter medication.
Effective Pain Relief Options
Ahmed noted that standard paracetamol can be a highly effective painkiller for sore throat pain. She also suggested ibuprofen for those for whom it is suitable, describing it as an anti-inflammatory that can help soothe the throat.
For localised relief, many people reach for medicated lozenges. According to Ahmed, some contain a local anaesthetic, while others include anti-inflammatory ingredients. However, she cautioned that the impact of lozenges can be quite small and advised speaking with a pharmacist to determine which products are available and suitable.
The Role of Hydration and Temperature
Proper hydration is key to soothing a sore throat, but Ahmed warned that people often choose the wrong types of drinks. Warm drinks with honey can be soothing, and cold drinks or foods such as ice lollies can provide a numbing effect that relieves pain.
She specifically advised avoiding boiling hot drinks straight from the kettle, stating that they can irritate the throat further and make the pain worse. Health experts note that scalding liquids can cause thermal irritation and mild burns to the already sensitive, inflamed lining of the throat, increasing pain, inflammation, and swelling.
Recovery and When to Seek Help
According to the NHS website, a sore throat normally improves on its own within a week but heals faster with proven treatments. Ahmed advised that anyone experiencing severe symptoms that are not improving should speak with their pharmacist or GP.
