Sore throat is one of the most frequent annoyances with the arrival of autumn. Temperature fluctuations and drier air weaken the defenses of the respiratory tract, promoting inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils.
The most common causes are viral, but irritations due to smoke, cold air, or prolonged vocal strain are also present.
Did you know that… even breathing often with your mouth open (perhaps at night, if you have a stuffy nose) can irritate your throat and make you more prone to inflammation?
Before resorting to medicines, you can try some simple but effective remedies:
- Drink warm herbal teas with honey and lemon, which soothe the throat and soften mucous membranes.
- Gargle with warm water and salt: an old grandmother's remedy that still works today.
- Humidify the environment, especially at night.
- Avoid smoke and excessively dry air.
A useful trick: add a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil to the gargle water — it has a refreshing and natural antibacterial effect.
When the pain becomes more intense, you can use over-the-counter medications such as:
- Anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, flurbiprofen)
- Local anesthetics in spray or lozenges (lidocaine, benzydamine)
- Antiseptics to disinfect the throat (chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium)
⚠️ Antibiotics should be used only with a doctor's prescription and only in case of bacterial infection.
Consult a doctor if the pain lasts more than 5–7 days, if a high fever appears, or if you notice white patches on your throat. In these cases, it could be a bacterial infection.
Fun fact: the classic “burning sensation in the throat” after a day of air conditioning is not an infection, but a mechanical irritation. Rest, fluids, and more humid air are enough to make it go away!
To prevent throat discomfort:
- Cover your nose and mouth well during temperature changes.
- Wash your hands often.
- Maintain high hydration and immune defenses with vitamin C-rich foods.
An extra tip: sucking propolis or mallow candies keeps the throat moist and reduces the risk of inflammation.