Drink warm liquids (tea, broth, warm water with honey)
Gargle with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in 1 cup warm water) several times daily
Use honey (1–2 teaspoons) as needed; avoid for children under 1 year
Stay hydrated with water and other non-caffeinated drinks
Rest your voice and avoid yelling or whispering
Use throat lozenges or hard candy to keep the throat moist
Try a humidifier or take steamy showers to add moisture to the air
Use saline nasal spray or rinse if post-nasal drip is present
Avoid smoke, vaping, and alcohol
Avoid very hot, spicy, or acidic foods and drinks
Take over-the-counter pain relief if you can use them safely (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
Consider topical throat sprays or numbing gels according to label directions
If you have allergies, treat them (antihistamines or prescribed meds) to reduce post-nasal drip
Seek medical care urgently if you have trouble breathing, drooling, inability to swallow liquids, severe one-sided throat pain, or a muffled “hot potato” voice
Seek medical care soon if symptoms last more than 3–5 days, worsen, or you have fever, rash, swollen neck glands, or suspected strep exposure
Get tested for strep throat if you have fever plus sore throat without cough or with tender neck nodes