Introduction
Burning sensations in the throat can be uncomfortable and frustrating, making it difficult to swallow or speak. Dry air, acid reflux, or viral infections are some common causes of this problem. If you frequently experience this problem, you may be wondering how to get rid of the burning sensation in throat. This article aims to answer this question by providing natural remedies, OTC treatments, and tips for avoiding triggers.
Home Remedies
Natural remedies may provide relief from the burning sensation in the throat. Drinking warm water can help to soothe the irritation. Warm honey or ginger tea can also be particularly soothing when taken several times a day. Gargling salt water can help to clear any dust or irritants that might be causing the problem.
Another useful remedy is apple cider vinegar, which helps relieve discomfort in the throat due to its acidic properties. However, it should be diluted with water before using, as undiluted apple cider vinegar can damage tooth enamel or cause throat irritation. Drink one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar diluted with a glass of water to minimize burning and pain in the throat.
Over-the-counter (OTC) Treatment
If you experience a burning sensation due to acid reflux, over-the-counter remedies like antacids or acid blockers can be useful. These substances help to reduce the acidity of the stomach contents and reduce the amount of acid in the throat.
Antacids usually work by neutralizing the stomach acid, while acid blockers limit the production of the stomach acid. H2 blockers like ranitidine or proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole tend to block the acid production in the stomach, providing relief for the burning sensation in the throat caused by acid reflux.
Avoid Triggers
Avoiding triggers that can cause burning sensations in the throat could also be an essential step in getting rid of this problem. Smoking, consuming alcohol, and dealing with stressful situations are just some of the habits that can trigger throat burning. Foods that are spicy, acidic, or high in caffeine should also be avoided or consumed in moderation.
If you feel like you cannot maintain such strict rules, try to eat smaller and more frequent meals, and avoid eating or drinking for at least a few hours before bedtime. Avoid lying down right after having a meal; instead, wait for two to three hours and then lie down. Raising the head of your bed by 4 to 6 inches can also be beneficial in reducing the symptoms of acid reflux.
Hydration
Drinking plenty of water can help to soothe irritated tissues and reduce burning sensations in the throat. Staying well hydrated is a vital part of treating this problem. However, certain liquids like alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate the body further, resulting in more irritation and pain in the throat.
Instead of consuming caffeine or alcohol, try drinking warm water and herbal teas. Avoid smoking, as it not only irritates the throat, but also dehydrates the body and exacerbates burning sensations in the throat. Chewing some gum or sucking on a lozenge can also help increase saliva production and keep the throat moist.
Gentle Throat Exercises
Performing some gentle neck and throat exercises can soothe the irritation and provide relief from burning sensations in the throat. Simple exercises like yawning widely, humming, or deep-breathing can help relax the throat muscles.
The “chin tuck” exercise can also be useful, as it helps to strengthen the muscles that help in swallowing and prevent acid reflux. Keep your shoulder down, and slowly move your chin towards your chest while keeping your gaze forward. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat three to four times a day.
Medical Treatment
In cases where burning sensation arises due to an infection or an allergy, medical treatment becomes necessary. Antibiotics, steroids, or other medications can be prescribed by a doctor to provide relief from these conditions.
If the sensation in the throat is severe and causes difficulty in swallowing, breathing, or speaking, see a healthcare practitioner immediately. This is because they may recommend an allergy test or a throat culture swab to find the underlying cause of the problem.
Home Care
In addition to over-the-counter and natural remedies, there are several additional steps you can take to relieve the burning sensation in the throat. First, get adequate rest, and avoid stress as much as possible since high stress can exacerbate the problem.
Avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking, drinking, or consuming caffeine in large amounts. Instead, take throat wellness supplements like Vitamin C to improve your overall health and reduce the severity of the symptoms. Get regular exercise to keep your body healthy and your immune system strong.
Conclusion
Burning sensations in the throat can be uncomfortable and challenging to deal with, but they can be managed. This article provides solutions for how to get rid of the burning sensation in throat, ranging from natural remedies to OTC treatments to medical interventions.
Avoiding triggers, staying hydrated, and performing gentle throat exercises are some of the tips that can help to reduce the severity of this condition. In the end, taking care of your throat and overall health is essential to reduce the occurrence of this problem.
Whatever method you choose, it is helpful to be consistent and give the treatment time to take effect. With patience and practice, you can ultimately find relief from this uncomfortable problem.
