I've always wondered about that same question. I think the spaced-out feeling is because the virus or bug that's making you sick physically also does a slight number on you neurologically, too. That's especially true if you're running fever.

My favorite remedies for sore throats:
Aspergum (gum that contains aspirin). Unfortunately, it's harder and harder to find.
Chloraseptic spray
Gargling wtih salt water
Chloraseptic lozenges
Ice chips and/or popsicles

The grossest thing I ever did for a sore throat was something recommended to me by my internist, who suggested mixing one part Chloraseptic liquid (from the spray bottle) with one part liquid Maalox and gargling with that. The Chloraseptic numbs the throat, and the Maalox helps soothe the raw, red, ulcerated places and coats the throat. Unfortunately, something about the consistency or taste of that mixture made me hurl. So I never tried that again.