Throat Sprays
Like lozenges, throat sprays also contain anti-inflammatory, anesthetic, and antiseptic properties that can soothe the symptoms of tonsillitis. Part of their effectiveness lies in the fact that they can directly reach the site of infection (the tonsils). Experts recommend throat sprays with active ingredients like phenol, benzydamine, benzyl alcohol, dibucaine, cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine gluconate, and benzocaine (for adults).
To use throat sprays, spray them 2 or 3 times on the affected area. Then, wait for 10 to 15 seconds and spit it out. Throat sprays are not meant to be swallowed since they are topical medications. As long as they touch the infected area—in this case, the tonsils—they can already do their job. Besides, swallowing throat sprays can lead to side effects like upset stomach, indigestion, vomiting, and dizziness.
