Drink warm liquids (tea, broth) and plenty of water
Gargle warm salt water (about 1/2 teaspoon salt in a cup of warm 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
Rest your voice and avoid shouting or whispering
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Avoid alcohol and very spicy or acidic foods if they worsen pain
Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
Consider over-the-counter throat sprays or numbing gels as directed
Stay hydrated and maintain normal nutrition as tolerated
If you have allergies, use an appropriate allergy treatment (e.g., antihistamine or nasal steroid) as directed
If post-nasal drip is present, consider saline nasal rinses as directed
Seek urgent care or emergency help for trouble breathing, drooling, inability to swallow fluids, severe worsening pain, or signs of dehydration
See a clinician promptly if fever is high, symptoms last longer than 3–5 days, you have recurrent symptoms, or you suspect strep throat (e.g., sudden severe sore throat, swollen/tender neck glands, no cough, white patches)
Get evaluated for possible strep or other infections if you have close contact with someone with strep or if symptoms are severe