A doctor has introduced a simple, effective method to relieve sore throat discomfort in just 15 seconds without a trip to the pharmacy. Dr. Sooj, who shares health tips on social media, recommends complementing painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol with a salt water gargle.
He explains: “Salt water gargles have been really helpful for me. Use half a teaspoon of salt mixed into about half a glass of warm water. Gargle the solution at the back of your throat for 10 to 15 seconds, then spit it out. This process rinses the area, helping to remove bacteria, viruses, and sometimes pus, which can ease throat pain significantly.”
The NHS supports this advice, noting that sore throats are common and usually resolve on their own within a week. They emphasize that these symptoms generally don’t require medical treatment unless persistent.
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Many social media followers responded to Dr. Sooj’s advice with their experiences. Some shared challenges such as prolonged symptoms despite antibiotics, recurring chest infections, and lingering coughs. Others offered alternative remedies, such as slowly chewing on cloves to soothe the throat.
To ease a sore throat and reduce its duration, simple self-care measures like salt water gargles, rest, and staying hydrated are often sufficient. Symptoms can include pain, scratchiness, and difficulty swallowing, and in children, may also involve a high temperature and lethargy.