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How Does Salt Water Cure Throat Pain During Cold?
I was wondering how salt water helps in relieving throat pain during cold/ cough. Can you pls tell me how it works?
posted on
Thu, 5 Nov 2009
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Tue, 10 Nov 2009
Answered on
Mon, 28 Feb 2011
Last reviewed on
User's Response
Chandrika's
Response
In a cold the throat is wet and swollen, which makes it ideal for bacteria/virus to breed. When you gargle with salt water the swelling is reduced (by the simple process of osmosis) and this also helps kill bacteria. If the symptoms do not improve in a couple of days please consult your doctor. Gargling should only be done only 2-3 times per day. Too much gargling can worsen the problem.
Hi. Saline water gargles reduce the edema and also has a mild bacteriocidal effect. If your condition worsens then i would advise you to consult a doctor for antibacterial therapy.
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