<p>Painkillers are a great option. Something the Japanese do that I don’t necessarily think does much is gargle green tea. I personally think they’re nuts, but they claim it does everything from soothe sore throats to make you a love machine, so who knows?</p>
<p>Oh yeah, and Ricola? Love those.</p>
<p>If you are absolutely certain he does not need medical attention: This is what got my son through a once in a lifetime opportunity to perform (trumpet) when Horace Silver was getting an award.
I filled a water bottle with water and about a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. He gargled and spit out a bit every 15 minutes or so. It is nasty but this and his determination/great work ethic got him through. I found it in some old remedy book. Normally he just uses Ricola. It was worth it that time because he was desperate. I didn’t bother to figure our how/why it works.</p>
<p>Thanks all. He is better today. Salt Water+Advil+candy worked.</p>
<p>Glad to hear that</p>