Sore Throat Remedies for All Ages
Soothe a sore throat with safe and effective remedies for infants, kids, and adults. Discover natural home treatments like honey, saltwater gargles, and more, with important safety precautions for each age.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 18th Aug, 2025
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A sore throat can be an uncomfortable and irritating experience, making it difficult to swallow, speak, or even rest properly. Whether it’s due to a cold, allergies, or an infection, finding relief is essential for people of all ages—from children to seniors. The good news is that many sore throats can be managed at home with simple, effective remedies.
In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of a sore throat, symptoms to watch for, and safe, natural remedies that work for everyone. We’ll also share when it’s time to see a doctor.
What Causes a Sore Throat?
A sore throat can result from various factors, including:
- Viral infections (common cold, flu, COVID19, or mononucleosis)
- Bacterial infections (like strep throat)
- Allergies (postnasal drip from pollen or dust)
- Dry air (especially in winter or airconditioned rooms)
- Irritants (smoking, pollution, or shouting for long periods)
- Acid reflux (stomach acid irritating the throat)
Understanding the cause helps in choosing the right remedy.
Symptoms of a Sore Throat
Depending on the cause, a sore throat may come with:
- Pain or scratchiness in the throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Hoarse voice
- Red or white patches in the throat (if bacterial)
- Fever, cough, or runny nose (if viral)
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Effective Home Remedies for All Ages
1. Warm Saltwater Gargle (Safe for Ages 5+)
A simple saltwater rinse can reduce swelling and kill bacteria.
- How to do it: Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Gargle for 1015 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat 23 times a day.
2. Honey and Warm Water (Safe for Ages 1+)
Honey soothes the throat and has natural antibacterial properties.
- How to use: Mix 12 teaspoons of honey in warm water or herbal tea. (Note: Avoid honey for babies under 1 year due to botulism risk.)
3. Hydration is Key
- Drinking warm liquids like herbal teas, broths, or warm water with lemon keeps the throat moist and eases discomfort.
4. Humidify the Air
- Dry air worsens throat irritation. Use a humidifier or sit in a steamy bathroom to add moisture to the air.
5. Throat Lozenges or Hard Candy (For Older Children & Adults)
- Sucking on lozenges or sugarfree candy increases saliva production, keeping the throat moist.
6. Rest Your Voice
- Avoid shouting or talking too much to prevent further irritation.
7. Over the Counter Pain Relievers (For Adults & Older Kids)
- Medications like acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation. Always follow dosage instructions.
When to See a Doctor?
Most sore throats improve within a week, but consult a doctor if you notice:
- Severe pain or difficulty swallowing
- High fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C)
- White patches or pus in the throat
- Rash or swollen joints
- Persistent sore throat lasting more than a week
If you suspect strep throat (common in children), a quick test can confirm it, and antibiotics may be needed.
Preventing a Sore Throat
To reduce the risk of throat irritation:
- Wash hands frequently to avoid infections.
- Stay hydrated.
- Avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Use a mask in polluted or dusty environments.
Need Expert Advice?
If home remedies aren’t helping or symptoms worsen, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. You can book a quick online consultation with an Apollo24|7 doctor or schedule a throat swab test if needed.
Stay healthy and take care of your throat—it’s your gateway to good communication and nourishment!
Would you like personalized advice? Connect with an Apollo specialist today for expert care.
Consult an for ENT
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Dr. Kiruba Shankar M
Skull Base Surgeon
10 Years • MBBS, MS, DNB, MRCSEd
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(25+ Patients)
Dr Arnab Kalita
Ent Specialist
4 Years • MBBS,MS
Guwahati
Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati
Dr. S. Thirunavukkarasu
Ent Specialist
21 Years • Pediatric ENT & Airway surgery & Certificate of training in Airway surgeries at University hospital CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Chennai
Apollo Children Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
Dr. Satheesh Kumar Sunku
Ent Specialist
12 Years • MS (ENT, PGIMER)
Nellore
Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Madhav Koka
Ent Specialist
4 Years • (MBBS) , (DNB) Otorhinolaryngology , MRCS (ENT) , (DOHNS) Head and Neck Surgery , Royal college of Surgeons Senior clinical Laryngology fellowship
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(25+ Patients)
Consult an for ENT personalized consultation
Dr. Kiruba Shankar M
Skull Base Surgeon
10 Years • MBBS, MS, DNB, MRCSEd
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(25+ Patients)
Dr Arnab Kalita
Ent Specialist
4 Years • MBBS,MS
Guwahati
Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati
Dr. S. Thirunavukkarasu
Ent Specialist
21 Years • Pediatric ENT & Airway surgery & Certificate of training in Airway surgeries at University hospital CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Chennai
Apollo Children Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
Dr. Satheesh Kumar Sunku
Ent Specialist
12 Years • MS (ENT, PGIMER)
Nellore
Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Madhav Koka
Ent Specialist
4 Years • (MBBS) , (DNB) Otorhinolaryngology , MRCS (ENT) , (DOHNS) Head and Neck Surgery , Royal college of Surgeons Senior clinical Laryngology fellowship
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(25+ Patients)
