What effect do the lozenges have on the patient's symptoms?

The lozenges are designed to soothe the throat and provide symptomatic relief from irritation or soreness. They typically contain ingredients such as menthol or benzocaine, which can help numb the throat and reduce discomfort. By reducing the symptoms, the lozenges allow the patient to experience temporary relief from pain or scratchiness, making it easier for them to swallow and speak.

Choosing this option appropriately reflects the mechanism of action of throat lozenges, which primarily aims to lessen discomfort rather than eliminate the underlying cause of the symptoms entirely. The other options suggest a more extreme effect, either worsened symptoms or complete relief, which does not align with the typical usage of throat lozenges.