The colder months can be rough on our throats, especially when using heating systems that spread dry air through the house.
A sore throat is a common symptom of this, and it’s often an irritating one. If you’re dealing with a sore throat caused by heating, don’t worry! There are some simple ways to get rid of the pain and discomfort so you can breathe easy again.
In this article, we’ll discuss what causes sore throats due to heating and how you can combat the issue with simple home remedies.
Read on to learn more!
What Causes Sore Throats Due to Heating?
Heating can be an issue at certain times of the year, especially in colder climates. Unfortunately, it can also cause sore throats. This is because when a house or office is heated, the air in the space becomes dry and uncomfortable.
As a result, throat irritation and scratchiness often result, leading to a sore throat. Over time, this dryness can even lead to gagging or coughing fits as mucous membranes are affected by the moisture deficit.
Additionally, dust and other particles that would normally settle on the floor get stirred up by the forced air of heaters and air conditioners and begin to circulate throughout these spaces – further aggravating irritated throats.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to limit sore throat symptoms due to heating.
First and foremost, keep your indoor humidity levels balanced with frequent hydration (drinking plenty of water), and consider purchasing a humidifier if needed during drier months.
You should also regularly clean or change your furnace filters and make sure any vents are not blocked in order to reduce possible allergens or irritants circulating through your space.
By taking just a few simple precautions and making sure your environment doesn’t become too dry or dusty, you can help protect you and those around you from developing sore throats due to heating problems.
Home Remedies for Relieving Sore Throats Caused by Heating
Having a sore throat is never fun – especially when it’s caused by the dry air of winter heating! Fortunately, there are few simple home remedies you can use to help alleviate the discomfort one feels.
Humidify Your Home
Humidifying your home is a great place to start; this will help add moisture back into the environment and soothe your throat naturally.
Utilizing humidifiers and keeping plants in your living space can also help increase the humidity levels within closed doors.
Gargle With Saltwater
Gargling with saltwater is one of the most common home remedies for sore throats caused by heating.
To make a saltwater gargle, mix 1/4 teaspoon of table salt with 8 ounces of warm water (make sure not to use hot water – it will irritate your throat more).
Gargle for 30 seconds and spit out; repeat twice per day until symptoms become bearable.
Drink Lots of Fluids
Drink lots of fluids, as dehydration can make a sore throat worse. Drink hot tea with lemon or honey to soothe the throat, or gargle salt water at least twice a day.
This should effectively relieve sore throats caused by heating systems, getting back to feeling comfortable and healthy all winter long!
Use Vapor Rubs and Ointments
Use vapor rubs and ointments such as Vicks on your chest before bedtime as short term relief from coughing and difficulty breathing due to stuck allergens or mucus buildup from heating conditions inside your house.
While no remedy is guaranteed, trying just one or two of these suggestions may make the difference in getting relief from this common winter nuisance!
Make Natural Herbal Tea Remedies
Make natural herbal tea remedies yourself using plants such as sage, elderflower, thyme, chamomile and peppermint – you can find these ingredients at most health food shops or online.
With just a few simple steps like these you’ll be able to relieve your sore throat and get back to feeling comfortable again soon!
Conclusion
A sore throat caused by heating can be uncomfortable and annoying, but it doesn’t have to ruin your cold weather season! There are several home remedies that can help you relieve the discomfort and get your throat back to normal.
Remember to keep your home humidified, drink plenty of fluids, gargle with saltwater, and make herbal teas as needed to obtain relief.
With these tips in mind, it will be easy for you to enjoy a warm house without having to worry about an unpleasant sore throat!
