Gargle with warm salt water or an antiseptic mouthwash (such as povidone-iodine) a few times a day to ease your sore throat. Stay hydrated by sipping warm fluids, such as tea or soup. For mouth ulcers, apply a protective oral gel or antiseptic ointment, and avoid spicy, acidic, or rough foods. Take paracetamol to reduce pain and mild fever if needed. Please see a doctor if your symptoms worsen or do not improve.

A painful, swollen penile ulcer with discharge can happen for several common reasons. It might be due to a sexually transmitted infection, such as herpes simplex virus or syphilis, or a bacterial infection that started from minor irritation. Since topical povidone-iodine (Betadine) hasn't cleared it, it is very important to see a healthcare provider soon. They can perform a physical exam, take a gentle swab of the ulcer, and run blood tests to find the exact cause. This will help them prescribe the right targeted treatment, like antibiotics or antivirals, to help you heal quickly.

Accidentally gargling with Betadine (povidone-iodine) antiseptic solution and spitting it out is generally not harmful, though it is stronger than the gargle formulation. The 'fuzzy' feeling on your tongue is likely temporary irritation from this higher concentration. I recommend rinsing your mouth thoroughly with plain water and drinking plenty of fluids. This sensation should improve within a day or two. If you experience worsening irritation, swelling, difficulty swallowing, or if you swallowed a significant amount of the solution, please see a doctor.

However, using these remedies every day for prevention is not recommended. Daily gargling with Betadine (povidone-iodine) can lead to excessive iodine absorption, which can affect thyroid function, especially in older adults. Similarly, daily steam inhalation with Easy Breath capsules (containing essential oils) can irritate the airways and nasal lining over time. These treatments are excellent for short-term relief during a cold, but for daily prevention, staying hydrated, eating well, and handwashing are much safer and highly effective.

You can use light, easily digested foods like rice, yogurt, and khichdi to treat flatulence, dysentery, and indigestion. You should also drink plenty of water. Ginger, fennel seeds, and triphala are examples of herbal medicines that can improve digestion and lessen gas, but if symptoms persist, a doctor should be consulted.

Since antibiotics and antacids only provide temporary relief, the cause might be chronic irritation rather than an active infection. Common culprits include laryngopharyngeal reflux (silent reflux), where stomach acid irritates the throat, or ongoing post-nasal drip from allergies. I recommend discussing a trial of daily generic proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole) or generic nasal steroid sprays (like fluticasone) with your doctor. Staying well-hydrated and using a cool-mist humidifier at night can also soothe the tissue. Please follow up with your ear, nose, and throat specialist for a detailed examination to pinpoint the exact cause.