Hello Rescue Fans,
This morning, I received an email from a Rescue Fan that is planning on going on Memorial weekend vacation, but woke up with a really sore throat. With no time to see their doctor, they wondered if there were any over the counter or home remedies that they could use while on vacation. Here was my advice and if you can relate, I hope it helps.
“Hi Sarah,
The only way to know for sure if the source of your sore throat is a Strep Infection is to get a test at the doctor’s office or med center. It sounds like you don’t have time for that but if you’re concerned about it being something serious, like Strep, than call your doctor, explain that you’re going on vacation and see if they can “fast track” you through to rule out Strep and get Antibiotics if needed.
Now, if it’s not Strep and just a virus or allergies etc. there are some things that have been found to be helpful which can be found at any drug store/grocery store or home pantry. These won’t get rid of the Strep Bacteria but if it’s just a sore or irritated throat, it may help.
Here’s a combination of home remedy and over the counter help.
-Warm to Hot Tea Lemon/Honey Tea: Caffeine free is best for rehydration but any tea can work. Fresh squeezed honey would be best and local honey.
–Gargling with Warm Salt Water: 1/2 teaspoon iodized salt, gargle with head back and spit water out after each gargle for about 10 seconds each. Half a glass of saltwater is fine. Then, don’t rinse your mouth afterward. Tongue may feel a little funny, lips too but that’s from the salt water and should go away.
–Chloraseptic Spray and Lozenges: I like Chloraseptic brand throat spray, and though it can’t claim to cure a bacterial infection, I don’t think it can hurt because it does have some antiseptic properties along with it’s numbing effect. Offers temporary relief but may be of help.
-Stay Hydrated: We should drink at least 6-8 8oz glasses of water per day. More if we’re sick, exercising or drinking caffeine.
-Drink Broth: It’s usually quite salty, warm and doesn’t scratch your throat.
-REST!
Your body needs its rest in order to heal. If you’re feeling tired, try and get some sleep. Usually, vacations are anything but rest, but regardless that’s my advice.
I hope you’re feeling better soon and I hope this helps!”
Roy Shaw
Roy is the lead trainer and co-founder of ProTrainings. He is also an EMT paramedic whose opinions about rescue come from many years of experience on the ambulance.
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