Viral Pharyngitis Treatment

There are no treatments to cure a viral sore throat. Most cases of viral pharyngitis heal on their own within about a week's time. A sore throat may be the initial symptom of an HIV infection.

Treatments to relieve symptoms until the infection heals, include:

Over-the-Counter Pain Medication

Sore throat pain can be treated with acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

• Note : Aspirin is not recommended for children or teens with a current or recent viral infection. This is because of the risk of Reye's Syndrome. Ask your doctor which other medicines are safe for your child.

Self-Care

• Gargling with warm salt water can help relieve a sore throat.
• Using throat lozenges every couple of hours can help relieve sore throat and cough.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Hot drinks and soups can be very soothing for a sore throat.
• Consider running a cool-mist humidifier. It can help keep your nasal passages moist and reduce congestion, two factors that can worsen a sore throat.