Sore throats tend to come at the worst of times. Whether it’s on the day of an important presentation at the office or a much-awaited outing with friends, an itchy or painful throat can totally ruin your day.

Most sore throats clear up given time and rest. However, if you experience recurring or prolonged sore throats, it could be a sign of something that needs fixing.

When you understand the type of sore throat you have, you can cope with it better. Here are some common causes and remedies.

1. Polluted or dry air

The air that you breathe can affect your throat. Haze, allergens or second-hand cigarette smoke may be the cause of throat irritation. Dry weather or being in an air-conditioned room for prolonged periods may also lead to a scratchy throat.

What you can do about it: Try to steer clear of polluted air. When indoors, keep the air around you moist by using a humidifier. A steamy shower can also help bring moisture back into the air.

2. Swollen vocal chords

If you have strained your voice and have a sore throat, it is likely that your vocal cords are swollen.

In this case, the best solution is to stop talking. The more you try to talk, the more painful and hoarse your voice will get. You may end up losing your voice altogether if you don’t give it time to recover.

What you can do about it: Get as much rest as possible. In the meantime, stay hydrated and keep your throat moist. A spoonful of honey does wonders for your throat.

3. Viral infections like the common cold or the flu

If your sore throat is followed by a runny or stuffy nose, you may have a cold. This could also lead to the build-up of phlegm in your throat, causing discomfort. While this kind of sore throat usually gets better in a few days, it’s best to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe.

What you can do about it: Gargle salt water to clear phlegm accumulated in your throat. You can also take lozenges to help stimulate saliva and keep your throat moist.

4. Bacterial infections like strep throat

Unlike a sore throat from the common cold, strep throat is more severe. It is often identified by white patches on the back of the throat.

Strep throat can cause difficulty in breathing and swallowing. Since strep throat is a bacterial infection, it needs to be treated with antibiotics.

What you can do about it: Visit a doctor for further diagnosis. They will be able to examine your throat and prescribe medication if necessary.

5. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid rises up the esophagus, causing heartburn and pain when swallowing. If this happens more than twice a week, you may have GERD.

What you can do about it: Making necessary lifestyle changes is important to relieve the effects of GERD. You may have to eat moderately throughout the day or avoid spicy and greasy food. Propping up your pillow at a 45-degree angle when sleeping may help give you some relief from acid reflux.

For temporary relief of sore throat symptoms, DifflamAB Sore Throat Lozenges contains two antiseptic ingredients – 2, 4 dichlorobenzyl alcohol and amylmetacresol. These act as anti-inflammatory agents to calm the swelling in your throat.

DifflamAB comes in a variety of flavours, including honey lemon, lemon, orange and blackcurrant.

If you’re experiencing sharp, stabbing pains in your throat, Difflam HEXTRA, available in grape flavour, works as an antiseptic and local anaesthetic to numb your throat.

DifflamAB and Difflam HEXTRA are sold over the counter at most pharmacies.

Find out more about DifflamAB and Difflam HEXTRA on their Facebook page.

For more information, read the product label. Should symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional. If you feel unwell, seek medical attention promptly.

This article is sponsored by DifflamAB.

Disclaimer: This is a medicine product advertisement.
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Difflam HEXTRA (MAL20076056X)
KKLIU Number : KKLIU 3079/2021
Expiry Date : 31 Disember 2023

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Jalan Puteri 1/2, Bandar Puteri
47100 Puchong, Selangor
Malaysia.

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