Drinking alcohol can be fun socially. But, it often causes unwanted side effects, like a sore throat. Irritation and inflammation from alcohol can cause discomfort and pain. They make it hard to swallow or speak.
If you get a sore throat after a night of drinking, there are many cures and prevention tips. They can reduce your symptoms and stop future sore throats.
In this article, we’ll explore why alcohol causes sore throat. We’ll also give you practical solutions. They will soothe your throat. They let you enjoy social events without the bad aftereffects.
Why Does Alcohol Cause a Sore Throat?
Drinking alcohol can lead to a sore throat due to several factors:
- Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urination and leads to dehydration. A dry throat can cause irritation and soreness.
- Irritation: Alcoholic beverages can irritate your throat. This is especially true of those with high alcohol content. They can cause inflammation and pain in the delicate throat tissues.
- Acid reflux: Alcohol can relax the lower esophageal sphincter. This allows stomach acid to flow into the esophagus and throat. It causes heartburn and throat irritation.
Remedies for a Sore Throat After Drinking Alcohol
If you’ve ever had a sore throat after a night of drinking, you know how bad it can be. The burning, trouble swallowing, and discomfort can ruin your day. Luckily, there are many cures. They can soothe your throat and ease the pain and irritation from drinking.
Stay Hydrated
First and foremost, hydration is key. Drinking plenty of water is crucial to combat dehydration and soothe your throat. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water throughout the day to keep your throat moist and lubricated.
Gargle with Salt Water
Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds. The salt helps reduce inflammation and pain in your throat. Repeat this remedy several times a day for relief.
Drink Warm Tea with Honey
Warm tea, such as chamomile or ginger tea, can help soothe your throat. Add a tablespoon of honey to your tea. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Honey also coats your throat, providing relief from soreness.
Using a Humidifier Can Help Soothe Your Sore Throat
When the air is dry, it can worsen the discomfort of a sore throat. One way to alleviate this is by using a humidifier in your room. The added moisture in the air can soothe your dry, scratchy throat. It provides relief from the irritation.
However, you must keep your humidifier clean. This prevents the growth and spread of bacteria or mold. These can lead to more health issues.
Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
NSAIDs, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can reduce pain and swelling in your throat. Follow the recommended dosage on the package.
Soothing Your Sore Throat with Lozenges or Hard Candy
Another effective way to find relief from a sore throat is by sucking on throat lozenges or hard candy. This simple remedy stimulates your mouth to make more saliva. Saliva keeps your throat moist and reduces soreness.
For added benefits, choose lozenges that contain ingredients like menthol or eucalyptus. These compounds occur in nature. They can cool and further soothe your sore throat.
Give Your Voice a Break to Help Your Sore Throat Heal
When you have a sore throat, it’s important to let your voice rest. Talking or yelling too much can strain your vocal cords. This may worsen your throat pain and lengthen healing.
To promote faster recovery, try to minimize the amount of talking you do and avoid raising your voice. Resting your throat will help it heal better. This will reduce how long and how severe your sore throat is.
Preventing a Sore Throat When Drinking Alcohol
- Stay hydrated: Alternate between alcoholic drinks and water to maintain hydration and prevent throat irritation.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking cigarettes or exposure to secondhand smoke can exacerbate throat irritation and soreness.
- Limit acidic mixers: Citrus juices and carbonated beverages can increase acid reflux, leading to throat discomfort. Opt for low-acid mixers like cranberry juice or soda water.
- Don’t overdo it: Excessive alcohol consumption can worsen throat irritation. Drink in moderation and know your limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a sore throat from alcohol last?
A sore throat caused by alcohol consumption usually resolves within a day or two. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Can certain types of alcohol cause more throat irritation?
Yes, strong spirits and high-alcohol drinks are more likely to cause throat irritation. This is compared to lower-alcohol drinks like beer or wine.
When should I see a doctor for my sore throat?
If your sore throat lasts over a week, and comes with fever or trouble swallowing, see a healthcare pro.
By following these remedies and prevention tips, you can soothe a sore throat. It was caused by drinking alcohol. You can also reduce the likelihood of this issue in the future.
Remember to drink responsibly. Also, listen to your body’s signals. Doing this will help you keep your health and well-being.
We recommend these resources:
- 6 Tips And Tricks To Drink More Water Every Day
- Drinking Alcohol While Pregnant
- What Is The Importance Of Drinking Water?
Sources:
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sore-throat-after-drinking
- https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-articles/faqs-about-alcohol-and-the-throat
- https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/sore-throat-natural-remedies
- https://www.enthealth.org/be_ent_smart/seven-tips-to-help-you-prevent-a-sore-throat/
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/sore-throat-remedies-that-actually-work
- https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/understanding-sore-throat-prevention
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sore-throat/symptoms-causes/syc-20351635
- https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2013/03/soothing-sore-throat
- https://www.uclahealth.org/news/hot-sauce-and-other-home-remedies-for-a-sore-throat/
- https://familydoctor.org/condition/sore-throat/
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at Blufashion. She has been steering the website’s content and editorial direction since 2018. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra’s expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
