Does the burning sensation at the back of your throat bother you? Well, it could be because of something spicy you had or pollution. Even if it’s not a symptom of anything serious, it can make you feel extremely uncomfortable. In some cases, it may even be difficult for you to speak or eat. Fortunately, you can treat it at home. Here are some home remedies to help you deal with a burning throat.
Health Shots asked Dr. P Venkata Krishnan, Internal Medicine, Artemis Gurugram Hospital to discover some home remedies to relieve the burning sensation in the throat.
Causes of Burning Throat
The burning sensation in the throat can be caused by:
- Pollution
- Very hot foods or liquids
- spicy food
- Severe stomach acid reflux
- throat infection
- small ulcers
- Allergic reactions to certain foods
Home remedies to treat burning sensation in throat
Here are 7 best home remedies that can be used for instant relief from irritation and burning sensation in throat:
1. Honey
Honey is a remedy suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for burn throat. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of honey are known to kill bacteria or viruses that cause burning sensation in throat, which could be due to throat infection. You can eat two teaspoons of it or mix it with hot herbal tea.
2. Gargle with warm water
Gargle with a cup of warm water and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. You can do this when your throat is sore or itchy. Using salt causes the tissues of your throat to release fluid, making it easier to clear the virus and allowing mucus to drain. This could reduce acid production and also relieve gastrointestinal discomfort. Other than that, drink as much water as possible throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid throat irritation.
Read also : Can Drinking Tea Help Relieve Sore Throat? We recommended 3 top teas to try!
3. Cold milk
One of the best remedies for heartburn and sore throat is a cold glass of milk. Its calming and cooling effect could dull the sensation and numb the discomfort. Plus, it’s high in electrolytes and high in calcium, both of which can combat dehydration and digestive issues. It can also relieve a sore throat and help reduce swelling.
4. Mint
Peppermint has antiviral, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties have calming and numbing qualities that can eliminate the bacteria, fungi, and viruses that are causing the problem. Since acidity and heartburn can also cause a burning sensation in the throat, mint also helps reduce the production of acid in the stomach, thus alleviating the burning sensation.
5. Soft diet
Due to their relaxing effect, certain foods and drinks can help relieve the burning sensation in the throat. Consume foods like egg whites, yogurt, ginger, and oats. You can drink herbal broth, soup, vegetable smoothies and caffeine-free drinks. Hot tea with honey can help. Remember not to overdo a meal or drink. You can even consult your doctor for dietary suggestions to soothe a burning throat.
6. Avoid irritants
Whatever the reason, if your throat is burning, it is really essential that you have a healthy diet and avoid foods and habits that can irritate your throat. So avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, going to dusty places, eating hot, spicy or acidic foods, coffee or tea and junk food. Instead, try to keep your throat relaxed as much as possible and eat something sweet and healthy that can’t affect your throat in any way.
Read also : Adopt these 3 easy and daily tips to avoid acidity and indigestion
7. Eat an ice cream
Eat a popsicle, but not if you have a throat infection as it can make your symptoms worse. If the burning sensation in your throat is triggered by acid reflux or by eating hot, spicy foods, you can try eating a popsicle. The ice popsicle can provide instant relief by numbing the pain or burning sensation with its cold effect. You can even try iced tea and cold water to soothe your throat.
Feeling a burning sensation in your throat from time to time is not a case of an underlying condition. If a burning throat persists for more than a week, see your doctor. It could be a sign of a throat infection, the flu, or a number of other serious conditions that need medical attention.
