There are many reasons that a sore throat can appear: [chronic inflammatory process](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=78), adenoiditis, problems with the tonsils, reduced immunity, [viruses](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=32), swollen vocal cords, [tumors](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=163), polyps, chronic tonsillitis, laryngitis, and more. In short, if a sip of cold water makes you have problems with your throat, you should go to the doctor and get examined to make sure you take the right steps. ## What not to do unless advised by your doctor __Hot inhalations__ If your throat is swollen, breathing hot steam can lead ===to suffocation. In addition, bacterial infections thrive on heat and moisture, and this self-treatment can greatly aggravate the process and create a favorable environment for reproduction. __Antibiotics__ Overusing antibiotics can make it easier for bacteria in your body to reduce their effectiveness, making the antibiotics useless. Additionally, antibiotics do not affect your sore throat if it is caused by a viral infection. Your doctor will guide you through the appropriate tests and treatment to heal your throat. __Gargling__ There are excellent medications that, when used wisely, alleviate the discomfort in the throat, but many people still try to use home ingredients such as salt and iodine. This should be done carefully, as all these substances dry the mucous membranes, and only provide short-term relief. In no situation should you rinse your throat with alcohol. __Lollipops for sore throat__ Lollipops can be used to soothe the throat, but should only be used if necessary. They will not heal the throat. They may make the throat feel better, but the underlying problems will remain. ## Is it possible to protect your throat? You can but you have to do it gradually and understand that it takes time. Taking care of a weak throat is a sure way to say goodbye to a regular sore throat. Do the following: - Gradually lower the temperature of drinks and foods - Change drinks and food from warm to room temperature - Drink cool (but not cold!) water before eating ice cream - Avoid temperature contrasts: do not drink hot tea with ice - Try sucking an ice cube slowly and no more than two pieces per day