I posted this a few days ago with zero responses, so i deleted the original post and re-posting here, in hopes of replies.

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I am a 46 year old male in the US. What are the best suggestions for a bad sore throat including pain, feels scratchy, and difficulty swallowing,

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I understand that salt water gargles are important to do regularly when a person has a sore throat.

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Online, here are the most promising options that I have found in addition to that.

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1) Anti-Inflammatory Pain Reliver like Ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve. Is one better than the others for this specific issue?

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2) Menthol Cough Drops with Zinc. Is Zinc as important as some people say? It seems a menthol cough drop can assist as a cough suppressant, as well as soothing a sore throat.

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3) Which of these is most recommended, or is there a better one to consider, or just skip these altogether?

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A) Herb Pharm Soothing Throat Spray Herbal Formula with Echinacea and Propolis.

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B) Chloraseptic Sore Throat Spray, Menthol.

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C) Propolis Throat Spray by Beekeeper's Naturals,