Drink warm liquids (tea, broth) and stay well hydrated
Gargle warm salt water (about 1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz/240 mL water) several times daily
Use throat lozenges or hard candy to keep the throat moist
Use a humidifier or take steamy showers to add moisture to the air
Use honey (1–2 teaspoons) for cough-related throat irritation
Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed
Consider OTC throat sprays or numbing lozenges as directed
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes and other irritants
Rest your voice and avoid whispering
Stay away from very cold or very spicy foods if they worsen pain
Replace your toothbrush after a few days if symptoms are from a contagious infection
Seek urgent care if you have trouble breathing, drooling, inability to swallow liquids, severe one-sided throat pain, muffled “hot potato” voice, neck swelling, or stiff neck
Seek medical care if symptoms last more than 3–5 days, are worsening, or you have fever over 101°F (38.3°C), rash, or swollen/tender neck glands
Get tested for strep throat if you have sudden severe sore throat, fever, no cough, or swollen tender neck nodes
Contact a clinician promptly if you’re immunocompromised, pregnant, or have recurrent or severe sore throats