Health Tip: Help Prevent a Sore Throat

(HealthDay News) -- The arrival of colder weather typically invites a spike in sore throats.

While uncomfortable, a normal sore throat can be treated at home with rest and plenty of fluids. In more serious cases, a bacteria or virus can trigger a sore throat, which may require a doctor's care.

The American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery suggests how to help prevent a typical sore throat:

• Don't smoke or hang around people who do. Tobacco smoke contains toxic chemicals that can irritate the throat lining.
• If you have allergies, you're more likely to develop a sore throat. Treating symptoms can prevent your throat from becoming irritated.
• Avoid exposure to polluted air, which can contain tiny particles that can irritate your throat.
• Promptly treat cases of sinus infection or post nasal drip.
• If you live or work at a child care center, classroom, office, dormitory, prison or military base, wash your hands frequently to help prevent the spread of infection in these closer quarters.