With review and feedback from CEENTA ENT physician Timothy Kelly, MD (Fort Mill)Your child has come down with a sore throat. Fortunately, most sore throats don’t require antibiotics or a visit to the doctor, so today we're offering five ways you can help ease their pain at home.Drinking plenty of fluidsHydration is an important factor in the battle against illness, and water and juice are a good way to keep your child hydrated. Warm liquids like chicken broth can also provide some soothing pain relief. Just make sure it’s not too hot, because if it is it can burn their throat and make the situation worse.Consuming cold foods and liquidsSome children prefer cold foods like ice cream and ice pops, particularly in summer months. Not only do they help numb the throat, but they help keep the child hydrated, too.Gargling with salt waterGargling with warm salt water can help lubricate your child’s throat.Sucking on candy or lozengesIf your child is old enough – 4 or older – sucking on a candy or lozenge might help their throat. While lozenges do have some medicinal qualities, the simple act of sucking on candy or a lozenge helps generate saliva. Saliva coats the throat, which reduces dryness, pain, and itchiness.Taking painkillersIf your child is old enough, age-appropriate Tylenol or ibuprofen can offer some pain relief.When should they see a doctor?If your child is experiencing symptoms such as a high fever, dehydration, or trouble breathing, bring your child to their pediatrician or an ENT doctor, CEENTA ENT physician Timothy Kelly, MD, said.If your at-home remedies aren’t working, bring them to CEENTA. We’re happy to offer them the care they need.This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor. New patients can make appointment online with any of our ENT doctors in North and South Carolina. Current patients can also make appointments through myCEENTAchart with physicians they have already seen.
