Having a sore throat can cause agony, and the burning sensation can be incredibly uncomfortable. Although medication should be taken to help alleviate this problem, many people also reach for coffee. So should you drink coffee with a sore throat?
Coffee can be helpful in remedying a sore throat in the short term. Consuming a hot beverage has long been a recommended remedy, and while hot water isn’t particularly tasty, coffee packs a flavourful punch. It can help to soothe the area and reduce inflammation, and its high caffeine content can also provide an energy boost.
However, when it comes to long-term solutions, drinking coffee is far from ideal. Caffeine has a drying effect and can worsen a sore throat, making the problem even more cumbersome. Moreover, despite its initially soothing effect, it can lead to dehydration, exacerbating the already dehydrated throat further.
Coffee should generally also be avoided when experiencing a cold, as it can throw off the immune system’s fight against infection. Its diuretic tendencies can also compromise your recovery. For those who simply cannot go without the drink, decaffeinated varieties are available.
Herbal teas can be just as deeply flavourful as regular coffees, and provide a gentler, non-caffeinated alternative to use when necessary. For instance, ginger tea has long been treasured for its various medicinal qualities, and can help to reduce pain and clear away infection-causing bacteria in the throat. Other teas with helpful properties include peppermint and rosemary, both of which are praised for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammation effects.
Bottom line: Tea can be a better option than coffee when it comes to soothing a sore throat. While coffee can offer comfort and energy boost, it usually won’t make a lasting difference, and could even make the situation worse in the long-term. Drinking herbal tea may be better for your throat in the long-term and can still provide delicious and comforting taste.
Salty Snacks
Salty snacks can be beneficial for a sore throat. The saltiness can help to moisten the throat and the crunch of the snack can help give a temporary reprieve from it. This can be a great way to get momentary relief from the dryness and discomfort that sore throat often brings.
It’s important to be aware, however, that salty snacks won’t necessarily help combat the underlying infection. Canned foods such as soup might contain a large amount of salt, but they may not necessarily help to kill the bacteria at the root of your problem.
That said, snacks in moderation can occasionally provide relief. Specific foods such as nuts and crackers are easily accessible and can bring a small respite from the pain. A bowl of vegetable soup, an energy bar and other salted snacks can also help soothe the throat and reduce experiencing of pain.
But for those with a sore throat, it’s important to stay mindful about the types of snacks you choose. Processed foods, for example, are often high in salt but low in nutrition, so try to stay away from those as much as possible. More nutritional choices such as vegetables, whole grains, and nuts are better options.
Bottom line: Salty snacks can provide temporary relief from a sore throat, but they won’t necessarily help to fight the infection. Be mindful of the kind of salty snacks you consume, and make sure that they provide the nutrition your body needs.
Hot Beverages
Hot beverages, such as hot tea, can be helpful for those with a sore throat. Hot beverages reduce swelling and can help kill bacteria, allowing the throat to heal faster. Furthermore, most hot beverages also contain helpful nutrients that help strengthen the body’s defences against infections.
It’s important to note that not all hot beverages contain the same beneficial ingredients. Coffee, for example, has special properties such as caffeine that can help one to feel less tired, however it does not contain the same health-promoting properties as tea, which contains antioxidants and vitamins that may help fight infection and strengthen your body’s defences.
That said, some teas contain tannins which can make the throat scratchier, so it’s important to consider the types of tea you are drinking. Herbal teas, however, which contain ingredients such as honey, ginger, lemon, and turmeric can be especially helpful. These ingredients are known to reduce inflammation and contain anti-bacterial properties.
Bottom line: Hot beverages can be helpful when it comes to relieving a sore throat. Herbal teas contain helpful ingredients and special properties which may be able to help one fight the underlying infection. Be mindful and aware of the types of teas you are drinking, as some teas can have a negative effect and make the throat even more uncomfortable.
Frequent Lubrication
Humidity is a great way to increase your comfort level when dealing with a sore throat. Staying hydrated with water, as well as keeping a bottle of mineral oil or olive oil on hand to lubricate your throat can help to keep it from becoming too dry. The lubrication will not only help to manage the burning sensation but can also make it easier to swallow.
Using a humidifier or a steamy shower can also be beneficial, as the moisture will help to reduce the amount of discomfort. Additionally, using a saline spray or gargling salt water can help to reduce inflammation in the throat. This method can be especially effective as it helps coating the throat and its good for drainage as well as helping to clear out excess mucus.
It’s important to consider the type of humidifier you are using, however, as some may contain allergens that may worsen symptoms. If a humidifier is not available, simply consuming more liquids such as water, fresh juices, and soups may be just as effective. Be mindful and be sure to avoid any acidic or sugary drinks.
Bottom line: Humidity is key when trying to reduce the effects of a sore throat. Utilizing a humidifier as well as consuming more liquids such as oils, soups, and mineral water can help to moisturize the throat and reduce the amount of irritation and pain.
Managing Pain
When it comes to managing the pain of a sore throat, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Painkillers are usually the go-to option, especially those containing ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, these can have side-effects, such as nausea and stomach pains, so care must be taken when using them.
Alternative pain management methods that can be used include hot and cold compresses, as well as topical sprays or gels. It’s important to consider the type of product you are using, however, as some may contain ingredients such as menthol that may worsen your throat if used too often. Additionally, when looking for topical sprays, try to find ones that contain natural ingredients such as aloe vera, honey and lemon, which can help to soothe and reduce the pain.
If the pain does not seem to be subsiding, it can also be a good idea to seek medical help. Alternative pain relief methods such as acupuncture or massage can also be options worth exploring, in more extreme cases.
Bottom line: Painkillers are a common solution to reducing the pain of a sore throat. However, alternative methods such as compresses, topical sprays, and medical help can also be just as, if not more, effective. Be mindful of the type of product you are using and how often you are using it in order to avoid any further aggravation.
Lifestyle Changes
When it comes to remedying a sore throat, it’s important to consider lifestyle changes and steps that can be taken to help reduce the amount of pain and irritation. Getting rest and eating nutritiously are key. Allowing the body to rest and consume healing foods such as fruit and vegetables can help to strengthen the immune system and speed up the healing process.
It’s also important to stay away from any habits that could worsen a sore throat. Smoking and drinking, for example, can both dry out the throat area and lead to more irritation and inflammation. Consuming dairy products can also lead to an increase in mucus, making the condition worse.
Additionally, throat and sinus infections are usually caused by airborne bacteria, making prevention a key part of the healing process. Cleaning the environment and employing practices such as handwashing to reduce the amount of bacteria in the air and on surfaces can be helpful in this regard.
Bottom line: Lifestyle changes are important when trying to reduce and heal a sore throat. Rest, avoiding bad habits, as well as environmental cleanliness can also help to prevent and reduce the amount of throat and sinus infections.
Conclusion
Although coffee may offer a quick boost, in the long-term it is important to be mindful of other alternatives. Hot teas, salty snacks, hot beverages, and frequent lubrication, in addition to lifestyle changes, will all help to reduce the pain and discomfort one may experience with a sore throat.
