For a sore throat, I always did a combo punch to make it go away - this is before, when I had to sing a lot. There's a tea called Throat Coat that soothes for me really well. It's not the greatest tasting stuff, but you can get it at GNC, Vitamin World, any health food store, and even most regular grocery stores. The lemon variety that is a bit better tasting is a little harder to find. It's wacky, but it helps. Also, the Cepacol lozenges or spray, or Chloraseptic (same thing), since they contain a local anesthetic and numb the area. Also, if you stick to room-temperature and warmer beverages it will feel better. I hated that part, because I looove massive amounts of cold water, but it does help. And finally, if you have a humidifier, use it. If not, stay in a hot, steamy bathroom for a while.