Flu generally occurs due to extreme changes in ambient temperature that cause the human immune system to decrease and become unstable. Although pregnant women have tried to maintain their health, there will be conditions that make them get the flu. If it happens to pregnant women, this condition is considered worrying because pregnant women should not carelessly take flu or cold medicine. Then what to do when you get the flu and cold? Here we will discuss cold medicine for pregnant women.
Cold medicine for pregnant women is available in the form of medical drugs and also herbs. There are some medical drugs that are safe for consumption by pregnant women and do not harm the fetus. However, there are also drugs that if consumed are dangerous because they can cause birth defects. Actually, what kind of cold medicine is good for consumption by pregnant women to treat the flu so that it heals quickly? Here is an explanation of cold medicines that are safe for pregnant women.
Recommended cold medicine for pregnant women
During pregnancy, it is important to choose a cold medicine that is safe and suitable for your health condition. It is always recommended to consult your doctor or midwife before taking any medication during pregnancy. Your doctor can provide the most suitable recommendations based on your symptoms and the stage of your pregnancy. Here are some cold medications that are usually considered safer to use during pregnancy:
Cold medicines for pregnant women that can be bought at pharmacies
1. Dextromethorphan
Drugs that fall under the dextromethorphan class are antihistamines. These antihistamine drugs such as Benadryl and Claritin are safe to take as cold medicine for pregnant women due to allergies. A study said that the use of this drug was not found to be associated with birth defects in the fetus.
2. Guaifenesin
This type of medicine is an expectorant that can thin mucus in the lungs and phlegm when coughing. However, the use of this type of medication should be avoided during the first trimester. To be safer, the use and dosage of guaifenesin must be consulted with a doctor first.
3. Cold medicine for pregnant women: Paracetamol
Paracetamol is a cold medicine that is safe for pregnant women to take. Even paracetamol can be purchased without having to use a doctor's prescription. Paracetamol medicine is actually not intended to cure the flu. But it is effective to relieve some symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, body aches to headaches. The use of paracetamol drugs must follow the instructions for use and the recommended dosage.
4. Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is one of the drugs often recommended to relieve fever and mild pain during pregnancy. It is considered safe for use by pregnant women when used according to the correct dosage instructions and for a short period of time.
5. Antiviral drugs
Launching from the Central of Disease Control (CDC), anti-viral drugs include flu drugs that are safe for pregnant women when experiencing flu. However, the use of this drug must be accompanied by a doctor's prescription. This drug is effective for pregnant women within 2 days after the appearance of flu symptoms. This antiviral drug is considered to have many benefits compared to the potential risk of side effects.
6. Saline nasal spray
Saline nasal spray, also known as saline nasal spray, is one of the medications that is generally considered safe for pregnant women and can be used to relieve flu and cold symptoms. Saline nasal spray is a mild salt solution in water that is used to clean and moisturize the nasal passages. This can help thin mucus and relieve congestion and other symptoms.
7. Chlorpheniramine
Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. Most antihistamines including chlorpheniramine are considered relatively safe for use during pregnancy if used according to the correct dosage instructions and with a doctor's supervision.
8. Pseudoephedrine
Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant drug used to relieve nasal congestion and cold symptoms. Its use during pregnancy should be done with caution and in accordance with the doctor's directions, as there are several considerations that need to be understood.
Natural cold remedies for pregnant women
9. Apple cider vinegar
Some people claim that apple cider vinegar can help relieve cold or flu symptoms. However, keep in mind that there is no strong scientific evidence to support this claim. During pregnancy, it is important to talk to your doctor or midwife before trying any medications, including the use of apple cider vinegar.
10. Ginger
Another natural cold remedy for pregnant women is ginger. Ginger can improve blood circulation and help fight infection-causing bacteria and viruses. Ginger is considered to be the best home remedy for treating a cold in pregnant women.
11. Salt water
Please note that salt water can help reduce the amount of mucus and phlegm in the throat. In fact, a study in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine states that gargling salt water is more effective in preventing infection than flu vaccination.
12. Garlic
Garlic has antibacterial, antiviral and antibiotic properties so it can be used to relieve flu symptoms naturally. To do this, mix pieces of garlic with honey and lemon at least 2-3 times a day.
13. Lemon Water
Lemon is one of the fruits that contain vitamin C, which means it is rich in natural antioxidants. So that it can increase immunity and as a safe cold medicine for pregnant women.
14. Honey
Honey can relieve symptoms of colds and flu or other upper respiratory tract infections. A study also revealed that honey is effective in relieving the flu compared to commercial medication.
Conclusion
Well, that's what are the cold remedies for pregnant women both medical and natural remedies. During pregnancy, the use of medicines should be done with extreme caution and only under the supervision of a doctor or midwife. (Aq/MKK)
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