What actually helps a sore throat, and what is a waste of time?

Most sore throats are viral and settle in three to five days regardless of what you do. What genuinely helps symptoms: warm salt water gargles, adequate fluids, honey — not for under-ones — and simple analgesia. What does not: antibiotics for a viral sore throat, which is the majority of cases. The features that suggest bacterial strep and warrant review are fever with tender neck glands, white patches on the tonsils, and an absence of cough. Difficulty swallowing your own saliva, drooling, or a muffled voice needs same-day attention.