Handling and flu medicine for pregnant women should not be arbitrary. The reason, there are some drugs that can harm the fetus and the womb. Incorrect handling, including the use of herbal medicines, can also make the flu worse, and even cause other disorders.
Flu symptoms in pregnant women are usually similar to other people in general, namely cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, and fever. However, flu during pregnancy has a higher risk of complications, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
In addition, several studies also mention that severe flu in pregnant women can increase the risk of fetal death, premature delivery, or low birth weight if not treated immediately.
Handling the Flu During Pregnancy the Natural Way
Flu with mild symptoms can be overcome in several natural ways. When you have the flu, pregnant women can try the following ways to deal with it:
- Meet the needs of body fluids by drinking water, fruit juice, or warm tea. Pregnant women can also try drinking ginger tea to relieve flu symptoms.
- Eat warm foods, such as porridge or chicken soup.
- Enough rest.
- Keep the air clean by using a humidifier (humidifier) and stay away from cigarette smoke. This method is also good for relieving nasal congestion.
- Gargle with a mixture of warm water and salt, to relieve coughs and sore throats.
If these methods do not work to relieve the flu symptoms that pregnant women feel, they can take medicines. However, before taking any medication, remember to consult a doctor first, yes.
Consuming Flu medicine for pregnant women with safe
Consumption of drugs during pregnancy, including cold medicine for pregnant women, is actually not recommended, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. The reason is, this is the most important period for the development of the fetal organs. In addition, during this pregnancy, pregnant women are also more prone to miscarriage.
After the 12th week of pregnancy, if pregnant women feel the need to take cold medicine, choose drugs that are safe for pregnant women, such as paracetamol. This drug can treat headaches and relieve fever during pregnancy.
Consumption of medicines to relieve other flu symptoms, such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and coughing, should first be consulted with a doctor. That way, doctors can provide flu medicine for pregnant women that is safe for the womb and fetus.
To deal with a severe flu, pregnant women may also need to take antiviral drugs to eradicate the Influenza virus. However, the use of this drug must be based on a doctor's prescription.
Tips for Preventing Flu in Pregnant Women
Flu in pregnant women can be prevented in several ways. Here are some things pregnant women can do to prevent flu during pregnancy:
- Live a balanced nutritious diet.
- Adequate rest, namely by sleeping for 7-9 every day.
- Exercise routine.
- Manage stress well.
- Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth when your hands are not clean.
- Limit or avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Wear a mask when traveling or meeting other people.
- Get the influenza vaccine.
Flu in pregnant women should be handled with care, especially if flu symptoms do not show improvement or subside after 4 days. Similarly, if the flu appears along with other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, high fever, chest pain, vomiting, and cough with greenish-yellow or bloody phlegm.
If pregnant women experience severe flu symptoms or do not heal, you should immediately consult with your doctor so that treatment and flu medicine for pregnant women can be given that is safe and according to pregnant women's conditions.