I found good old warm salt water to be the most effective out of anyhting else for me. It felt the best-- it burns a little bit but it really heals the sores and redness and iritation better than everything else. It also cut the mucous down quite a bit. I also took musinex which helped dry me up and thin the mucous down.

Its a tough place where you are now but just take it easy. You'll figure out what works best for you. Yes I too would wake up for about 6 months afterwards-- and have something to clear out of my throat. It still happens once in awhile now too. Kinda gross but hey-- what are ya gonna do.
That area is so sensitive and its just been completely assaulted and altered.

Hang in there- you are doing great!