If you have the common cold or the flu, you may experience symptoms of a sore throat, nasal congestion, a thick feeling in the back of the throat, and chest congestion. Congestion can give you a headache, cause sinus pain and cause you to cough. There are several home remedies that can reduce your symptoms and bring relief. See your doctor to determine the seriousness of your condition.
Lemon and Honey
The Mayo Clinic suggests drinking a mixture of lemon, honey and hot water to help reduce the symptoms of congestion and a sore throat due to the common cold or flu. Heat water over the stove until it boils, then pour the water into a mug or cup. Add lemon and honey to taste, about 1 tbsp. of each. Stir and sip when the liquid is cool enough to drink. As you sip the liquid, carefully inhale the steam through your nose and mouth to help reduce congestion. The lemon will cut mucus in the back of the throat, the honey will reduce coughing and coat a sore throat, and the steam will help reduce congestion.
Humidity
Increasing the humidity in your home can help reduce congestion and moisten the vocal cords, which will make having a sore throat more bearable. Run a humidifier filled with distilled water while you sleep to help loosen congestion in the chest and nasal passages, recommends Alvin Katz, M.D., an otolaryngologist and surgeon director at Manhattan Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital. A humidifier releases water vapor into the air, which is absorbed into the body and loosens mucus. If you don't have a humidifier, fill the bathroom sink or bathtub with hot water, and then lean your head over the tub or sink and breathe in the steam for several minutes, until the lungs and sinuses feel clear.
Saltwater
Gargling with salt water may help reduce mucus buildup in the back of the throat, and calm the pain of a sore throat. Mix 1/2 tsp. salt into an 8-ounce glass of warm water. Take some of the saltwater into your mouth, and then gargle while tipping your head back. Spit the water out in the sink. Continue taking one mouthful of the water at a time, gargling it, and then spitting it out until it is completely gone. Repeat as needed throughout the day to help reduce sore throat pain and cut mucus.
