(HealthDay News) -- Strep throat can cause a nasty sore throat while you're getting over the associated bacterial infection.
The American Academy of Family Physicians says antibiotics are prescribed to treat the infection and help prevent serious complications. The group offers these suggestions, meanwhile, to tame the burn in your throat:
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (never aspirin for children).
- Gargle with a solution of 1/4 teaspoon of salt mixed in 1 cup of warm water.
- Suck on a ice pop, throat lozenge, or hard candy (but note that these remedies pose a choking hazard to very young children).
- Stick to foods that are soft and easy on the throat (applesauce and yogurt are good choices) or warm and soothing (such as broth or tea).
- Stay away from anything spicy or acidic.
- Get lots of sleep and drink a lot of water.
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