Contrary to what dentists would tell us, we need to replace our toothbrushes every month, and not every three months.
Germs can hide in toothbrush bristles and lead to reinfection, said Brett M, Scotch, D.O., an osteopathic physician. He added that even if you haven’t been sick, fungus and bacteria can develop in the bristles of your toothbrush.
Scotch said in this case, you can avoid experiencing sore throat.
“Not only are sore throats painful, but they also are one of the top reasons for doctor visits and sick days,” he said.
The osteopathic physician said a sore throat can be caused by a number of factors, including a common cold, low humidity, smoking, air pollution, yelling or nasal drainage.
And there are other less common causes for a sore throat, which can include strep throat, mononucleosis (also known as “mono”) or tonsillitis, the expert said.
When it comes to treating a sore throat:
* Gargle at least once an hour with warm salt water to reduce swelling and discomfort
* Drink hot fluids such as tea or soup, which soothe the throat and help thin sinus mucus, allowing for better drainage and decreased stuffiness
* Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
* Take nonprescription medications, such as throat lozenges, decongestants, acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen (but if you are allergic to it, take a different medicine).
* Start seeing your doctor if a severe sore throat and a fever over 101 degrees lasts longer than 1-2 days; you have difficulty sleeping because your throat is blocked by swollen tonsils or adenoids; or a red rash appears.
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If you have any of the symptoms listed above, it could mean that you have a bacterial infection. In this case, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to treat your infection.
“For adults who have repeated bacterial throat infections within a relatively short period of time, a physician may recommend a tonsillectomy, “ Dr. Scotch said.
But a tonsillectomy should always be the last resort for treating sore throats, Dr. Scotch warned.
The best treatment for sore throat is prevention. You can prevent a sore throat by replacing your toothbrush every month and tossing an old toothbrush once you’ve recovered from a sore throat to prevent reinfection; stopping smoking to help fight sore throat; washing your hands often, and eating right and getting plenty of sleep, he concluded.
Ana Williams is the health columnist for The Graham Star.