Home Remedy Tips To Relieve Flu Symptoms In Pregnant Women
Expecting mothers are encouraged to maintain all round health and wellness due to the fact that quite a few medicines are not safe to take while pregnant . However, as much as you try to shield yourself from getting sick, it may be challenging to stop typical illnesses like colds and flu. It is specifically common during the flu season, which begins in early October or November and ends in late May.
Although birth defects can rarely happen from getting flu during pregnancy, it predisposes a woman to problems like pneumonia. And to add to that, research has shown that flu and colds last three times longer in expecting mothers. The best weapon against flu is prevention. Flu vaccines are safe for pregnant women and also breastfeeding mothers. However, the nasal-spray flu vaccine is contraindicated because it has live, weakened influenza virus.
Common indications of flu are fever of over 101 degrees Fahrenheit, chills and sweats, dry cough, muscle aches, weakness, head ache, nasal congestion and loss of appetite. If you feel you have these symptoms, it is best that you contact your health care provider. Expecting mothers should avoid taking any over the counter medicines for colds and flu, if it has not been endorsed by her physician. The effects of cold and flu medications in pregnant women have not been well studied, so it is always best to get a prescription prior to taking any medicine.
Home treatments are fairly helpful in reducing symptoms of colds and flu. Air humidifiers function by supplying extra moisture in the room, that aids in reducing congestion. If you don't have an air humidifier, you can fill your sink with steaming water and you can add chopped ginger or add one teaspoon of Vicks VapoRub. After that drape a towel over your head, and inhale the vapor for a few minutes. Doing so should significantly help in relieving congestion. Another alternative is to add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or menthol to the steaming water. Eucalyptus is known for relieving congestion, and opening up the bronchial tubes.
It is very vital to stay hydrated if you have colds or flu. Congestion is a common problem and by consuming at least 8 glasses of water, it can help liquefy the secretions which have developed in your respiratory system. It is also good to keep away from caffeinated drinks because it may result in dehydration especially if you have fever. A diet high in Vitamin C can also help by strengthening the immune system. Good sources of Vitamin C include orange juice and fruits. Hot chicken soup has also been identified to enhance functions of the cilia, which are tiny hair-like projections, found in the nasal passages. The cilia functions by guarding the body from bacteria and viruses.
Expectant mothers must also get plenty of rest and sleep. This is essential simply because it helps the body improve immune function, and it provides the body a time to recuperate. If you have a headache, it is possible to apply cool or warm compresses to attain relief. To ease coughing and sore throat, one can use honey-based lozenges.
A woman's health through pregnancy is vital in ensuring a risk-free pregnancy. To avoid getting a virus, steer clear of crowds and contact with individuals who have colds. Pregnant women should also practice proper hand washing often, to decrease the chance of infection. Though flu can be managed at home, it is still very best to contact your health care provider if you do not feel any improvement in your condition after three days, or if you suddenly have problems breathing. It is essential that your physician can properly manage your treatment in order to stop any health risks, not only to you but also to your unborn child.
About the Author
They say your kid is a reflection of you. Visit http://www.Gagazine.com to learn how to raise a better child by raising a better parent (YOU) first.
Tell others about
this page:
Comments? Questions? Email Here