COFFEE & STREP THROAT
Coffee and strep throat don’t sound like the coziest of combinations, but millions of coffee drinkers are wondering; is it possible to drink coffee with strep throat? Many people rely on coffee to get their day going, but the last thing they want to do is increase the symptoms of their strep throat. To answer this question, let’s look at the effects of coffee and its impact on strep throat.
Coffee is generally not recommended for those feeling under the weather, especially when dealing with strep throat. Most experts agree that coffee consumption can increase dehydration and can worsen sore throat symptoms. Caffeine has a diuretic effect, reducing water volume. Dehydration can worsen any pain you may be experiencing from your sore throat.
However, some studies argue that having coffee with a sore throat is beneficial. A certain component of coffee, quinic acid, has been shown to have an analgesic effect on a sore throat. In fact, sipping coffee in small amounts has been found to soothe tonsils and reduce sore throat inflammation.
Coffee drinkers must also take into account their tolerance for caffeine. Those who are prone to feeling anxious or jittery with high caffeine may increase their anxious feelings when drinking coffee with strep throat. An increase in anxiety can lead to a decreased ability to combat infection, since the body is more preoccupied with dealing with anxious feelings rather than fighting the infection.
It is also possible to make coffee a little less harsh on a sore throat by adding some honey and milk to it. Honey is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and can help soothe a sore throat. Additionally, the creaminess of the milk can coat a sore throat, making coffee consumption more bearable.
At the end of the day, drinking coffee with strep throat really comes down to personal preference. Keeping in mind the factors mentioned above and consulting with a doctor or a pharmacist is the best way to make an informed decision.
POSSIBLE RISKS OF COFFEE FOR STREP THROAT
Depending on the level of pain and discomfort for your strep throat, drinking coffee could potentially have negative results if it is too hot or caffeinated. It can push your pain over the edge of your coping threshold. In addition to reducing water levels in the body through its diuretic effects, caffeinated beverages can also interact with common painkiller-based medications for strep throat, reducing the effect of the medication if consumed together.
Another risk that comes with drinking coffee with strep throat is that it can worsen dehydration. Dehydration affects the mucus membrane, which is the thin layer of tissue that lines the insides of the mouth and throat and the respiratory system. This in turn, increases the chance of a sore throat becoming more painful and uncomfortable.
It should also be noted that while some people may find coffee soothing in small doses, others may find it makes their symptoms worse. The conventional advice is to avoid drinking coffee and other caffeinated beverages when you have a sore throat.
ALTERNATIVES FOR COFFEE WITH STREP THROAT
For those with strep throat, there are several alternatives to coffee available to keep you energized. Teas such as green, ginger and chamomile tea are all excellent alternatives to coffee, all with their own benefits. Hot green tea helps restore important electrolyte balance in the body which helps boost the immune system, while ginger tea is known to contain some anti-inflammatory properties to soothe a sore throat.
For those needing an even milder alternative than herbal teas, warm lemon water is a favorite. In addition to being a hot drink, the acids in the lemon help break down mucus and cleanse the throat. Not to mention the fact that the drink is deficient in caffeine.
Another popular alternative is golden milk, made by combining turmeric, a spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and warm milk. Studies suggest that a cup of warm golden milk can coat your throat with a protective film making it less painful to swallow, as well as providing several other benefits.
PRECAUTIONS WHEN CONSUMING COFFEE WITH STREP THROAT
It is important to take your overall health into consideration when deciding whether or not to drink coffee with strep throat. If you suffer from any other type of allergies or illness and are taking any medications, drinking coffee could interfere with the effectiveness of these medications. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before drinking coffee with strep throat.
It is also important to be aware of your own caffeine tolerance. Those who are sensitive to caffeine should avoid drinking coffee when dealing with a sore throat since it could worsen their symptoms.
INFLUENCE OF COFFEE ON STREP THROAT SYMPTOMS
While coffee itself can have positive effects on a sore throat, it might not be the best choice if the symptoms of the sore throat are severe. It is important to note that coffee is a diuretic and can lead to dehydration which could make sore throat symptoms worse.
High levels of caffeine can also cause anxiety and restlessness, both of which can weaken the body’s ability to fight off infections. It is important to be aware of any signs of increased stress or anxiety when drinking coffee with strep throat since it can lead to greater discomfort.
HOW TO PREPARE COFFEE FOR STREP THROAT
When it comes to drinking coffee with strep throat, the key is to minimize the coffee’s harshness. It is important to prepare the coffee in a way that will make it easier to drink without causing too much irritation to the throat. Adding a bit of honey and milk can help to soften the drink and make it easier to consume.
It is also important to make sure the coffee you’re consuming is not too hot, as this could cause burning sensations that make your sore throat even more painful. You should opt for coffee or tea that’s at a comfortable drinking temperature.
CONCLUSION
Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to drink coffee with strep throat is a personal one. If you do decide to drink coffee, keep in mind the points above and make sure you’re mindful of your own tolerance level as well as the temperature of the drink. Before consuming coffee, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to make sure it is suitable for your current health.
