“What are the best ways to treat a throat infection?”
I see white patches in my throat and I am thinking it's an infection. Is there any way I can treat this at home?
7 Answers
Some throat infections may require treatment with antibiotic therapy. Home remedies include salt and water gargle or half strength hydrogen peroxide. If symptoms worsen or persist may consider ENT evaluation .
Hello,
You may try gargling with either salt or baking soda in water. However, if these exudates continue, there is pain, or fever, would recommend seeing an ENT physician.
Thank you.
Dr. D
You may try gargling with either salt or baking soda in water. However, if these exudates continue, there is pain, or fever, would recommend seeing an ENT physician.
Thank you.
Dr. D
Most of sore throats are viral in origin, usually salt water gargles 3 or 4 times a day will be enough to treat them. If the pain and fever persist for more than 3 days, see your physician for cultures and possible antibiotics if necessary,
Gargles with 1/2 tsp salt or baking soda. No smoking, alcohol, spicy foods. Most sore throats are viral, i.e. antibiotics not indicated. Should start getting better in 3-5 days, If not see your MD
The best way to treat any infection depends on what is causing the infection. If it is a virus the best treatment is fluids, rest and vitamin c and zinc and symptomatic treatment. A bacterial infection is treated with antibiotics. This is especially important for strep infection which can cause serious side effects ( including heart and kidney disease) if untreated.
Fungal infections like thrush can also cause white patches although these look different from other infections and a doctor should usually recognize this right away. Fungal infections are treated with different drugs from bacterial infections.
So sorry - there is no simple answer.
Fungal infections like thrush can also cause white patches although these look different from other infections and a doctor should usually recognize this right away. Fungal infections are treated with different drugs from bacterial infections.
So sorry - there is no simple answer.
In general, a sore throat mat response to gargling with warm salt water (1 tablespoon Kosher salt in a cup of water). You can add 1-2 drops of oregano oil to this and see if that helps.
If it isn’t getting better in a few days, however, you might need to be seen.
If it isn’t getting better in a few days, however, you might need to be seen.
Devang P. Desai
Ear-Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT)
No, you should see a physician as an antibiotic may be warranted
