Rest your voice; avoid talking, whispering, yelling, and throat clearing
Drink warm fluids (tea, broth) and stay well hydrated
Use honey (1–2 teaspoons) in warm water or tea
Gargle warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in a cup of warm water) several times daily
Use steam inhalation or a warm shower to soothe dryness and irritation
Try throat lozenges or hard candy to keep the throat moist
Use a humidifier in your room, especially at night
Avoid smoke, vaping, alcohol, and very spicy or acidic foods
Take warm showers and breathe through the nose; avoid cold, dry air
Consider OTC pain relief or anti-inflammatory meds if you can take them safely
Use OTC saline nasal spray if post-nasal drip is contributing
If you have reflux symptoms (heartburn, sour taste), avoid late meals and consider an OTC antacid
Seek prompt medical care if symptoms last more than 3–7 days, you have severe pain, trouble breathing or swallowing, coughing up blood, high fever, or a history of smoking or voice box issues
Seek urgent care if you have sudden voice loss with breathing difficulty, neck swelling, or severe throat pain
If you use inhaled steroids for asthma, rinse your mouth after each use to reduce irritation