During pregnancy, your body undergoes significant changes which often renders your immune system weak. As a result, you are more susceptible to cough, which can be particularly dangerous to both you and your developing baby.
But you don’t have to suffer through a cough during pregnancy. There are several safe and effective remedies you can try to alleviate your symptoms and feel better.
What Causes Cough During Pregnancy?
Cough during pregnancy can be caused by various factors. One common cause of cough is upper respiratory infection, which can occur due to a viral or bacterial infection. Other causes of cough during pregnancy may include:.
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Environmental irritants, such as dust, pollution, or smoke
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience a cough during pregnancy, it is important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary. See a doctor if:.
- Your cough lasts for more than a week
- You experience chest pain or shortness of breath
- You cough up blood
- You have a fever
- You experience symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness or lightheadedness
- You have been exposed to someone with tuberculosis
Remedies for Cough During Pregnancy
If you have a cough during pregnancy, you can try several safe and effective remedies to alleviate your symptoms and feel better. Here are some remedies you can try:.
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, or soup, can help keep your throat moist and alleviate your cough. Staying hydrated can also help thin out mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear from your system.
2. Gargle with Warm Salt Water
Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe your throat and relieve your cough. To prepare the solution, add one teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water and mix well. Gargle with the solution for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
3. Use a Humidifier
A humidifier can help add moisture to the air and alleviate your cough. Run a humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep to help soothe your throat and alleviate your symptoms.
Remember to clean and maintain your humidifier properly to avoid bacterial growth.
4. Try Honey
Honey is a natural cough suppressant that can help soothe your throat and alleviate your symptoms. Mix one tablespoon of honey with warm water or tea and drink it several times throughout the day to help alleviate your cough.
Note that honey should not be given to infants under one year of age due to the risk of infant botulism.
5. Steam Inhalation
Inhaling steam can help relieve your cough by moistening your throat and loosening mucus. Boil water in a pot, remove from heat, and lean over the pot with a towel draped over your head.
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Inhale the steam deeply for several minutes to help clear your airways.
6. Saline Nasal Spray
A saline nasal spray can help alleviate your symptoms by moisturizing your nasal passages and clearing out mucus. Buy a saline nasal spray from your local drugstore and use it according to the instructions provided.
7. Over-the-Counter Medications
If your symptoms are severe, you may consider taking over-the-counter medications, such as cough suppressants or decongestants.
However, it is important to consult with your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy to ensure it is safe for you and your developing baby.
Preventing Cough During Pregnancy
While cough during pregnancy is sometimes inevitable, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting cough.
1. Avoid Triggers
Avoid environmental irritants, such as dust, pollution, or smoke, that can trigger your cough. If you have allergies, try to avoid allergens that can trigger your symptoms.
2. Practice Good Hygiene
Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating, to reduce your risk of getting sick. Avoid close contact with sick people whenever possible.
3. Get Vaccinated
Influenza and whooping cough vaccines are safe and recommended for pregnant women to protect against illness and reduce the risk of complications.
4. Take Prenatal Vitamins
Take prenatal vitamins as recommended by your doctor to ensure you are getting all the nutrients you and your developing baby need to maintain a healthy immune system.
Conclusion
Cough during pregnancy can be uncomfortable and sometimes even dangerous. However, there are several safe and effective remedies you can try to alleviate your symptoms and feel better.
If you experience a persistent or severe cough, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions that may require medical intervention.
