The cold season is here and almost everyone is vulnerable to its scorching effects.
While there are many diseases that comes with the cold season, cold is notably the most common disease that can affect everyone.
But the chances of a woman catching a cold while pregnant are high because the immune system is affected by pregnancy.
The seasonal cold is one of the most common respiratory sicknesses in humans, according to research.
Knowing what to do if someone catches a cold while pregnant can help to keep them and their baby healthy. There are a number of factors for a pregnant woman to consider when treating or preventing a cold, and there are times when she should seek a doctor’s help.
Treatment
Treating cold means buying a number of drugs to keep it under control. However, there are a number of things to consider for both the woman and the baby.
Medications can be a sensitive topic. The possibility of medications affecting an unborn child may worry some pregnant women. Most over-the-counter medications use the same few ingredients to treat cold symptoms.
Pain Relievers
It is important to treat pain during pregnancy as it can lead to stress, high blood pressure, and even depression symptoms if left unchecked.
Over-the-counter pain medications include acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.
Cough Suppressants
Suppressants medications like dextromethorphan are often found in over-the-counter medications. These suppressants medications are generally considered safe for pregnant women in the correct doses, but drug-free options should always be considered the first line of defense.
Before using a cough suppressant medication, pregnant women can try using herbal or mentholated throat lozenges in order to ease a cough or sore throat.
Decongestants
Different studies shows decongestants use have shown mixed reactions.
Some studies suggest that using decongestants during the first trimester of pregnancy has been linked with a small increase in birth-related problems. However, multiple follow-up studies have failed to get these same results.
Oral decongestants are considered relatively safe to use during pregnancy, but should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Natural Remedies
Doctors recommend use of natural ways to help counter cold symptoms.
Increasing liquid intake to eight to 10 glasses per day can help to flush out the body and make people feel more comfortable. Juices and smoothies can also provide nutritional intake when people have no appetite.
Also, resting for a long time during ailing is good to help the body have good time to recover.
Lying down with your head elevated is a good practice to help with breathing and stuffiness.