Experts are urging people to skip two popular sore throat remedies this winter season. Consumer group Which? reports that medicated lozenges and antiseptic throat sprays are largely ineffective, with simple home remedies proving just as good at a fraction of the cost.
Professor Nirmal Kumar, a consultant ENT surgeon and former president of ENT UK, told Which?: «You don't need to buy expensive treatments when a few straightforward home remedies can help ease the symptoms.» The advice comes as sore throats remain incredibly common at this time of year.
The NHS notes there is «little proof they help when used on their own» regarding antiseptic sprays. For medicated lozenges, experts say «any hard sweet and a painkiller will also do the trick» - rendering expensive branded products unnecessary.
What actually works
Gargling with warm, salty water tops the list of recommended remedies. The NHS advises mixing half a teaspoon of salt with 150ml of warm water and gargling for 30 seconds, three times daily. This method is not suitable for children.
Generic paracetamol or ibuprofen provides effective relief at lower cost. Branded versions can cost nearly five times as much as budget alternatives, yet Professor Kumar confirms: «These will reduce the soreness and feeling of illness.»
Sucking on hard sweets increases saliva production and lubricates the throat, while ice cream, ice cubes or ice lollies can temporarily numb pain. A warm honey and lemon drink also helps, though hot drinks may worsen discomfort.
When to see a doctor
Which? cautions: «Most sore throats will get better on their own within a week or so. If your sore throat is the result of a viral infection, you can't do much to actively get rid of it – it's mainly about using the right sore throat remedies to ease the pain until your body fights it off. If it appears to be a bacterial infection, you're unsure, or if your viral sore throat isn't improving or is worsening, contact your GP, as you may need a targeted medication.»
Specific situations requiring medical attention include: children under five with sore throats, symptoms lasting more than a week, frequent sore throats, or accompanying signs like lumps in the mouth or neck, or mouth ulcers persisting beyond three weeks.
Preventing spread involves washing hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing. Hand sanitiser should contain at least 60% alcohol. Always cover coughs and sneezes with tissues and dispose of them immediately.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
