Are you pregnant and experiencing a sore throat? Show
Pregnancy can make the treatment of common ailments infinitely more complex. Because your baby’s health is of utmost importance, there are many things you can’t ingest while pregnant. But your health and comfort are important, too, so it’s necessary to appropriately diagnose and treat any potentially serious illnesses you may develop during pregnancy. A sore throat is rarely an indicator of serious illness, but it can cause severe discomfort. Here’s everything you need to know about treating a sore throat during pregnancy. What Causes a Sore Throat?A sore throat is a feeling of irritation in the back of the throat. It can vary from mild to severe, and may feel like:
A sore throat can be caused by a multitude of things, from environmental irritants to viruses to pregnancy hormones. Here are some of the most common causes of a sore throat during pregnancy:
Is a Sore Throat Dangerous During Pregnancy?A sore throat alone is not dangerous during pregnancy. While it is a common symptom of many uncomfortable ailments, serious complications are rare. Always check with your doctor for reassurance and precaution. When Should I See a Doctor for My Sore Throat?While a sore throat is not dangerous, there are some occasions when you should check in with your doctor.
Editor's Note: Dr. Njoud Jweihan, MD Strep throat is easily treated with antibiotics, and your doctor will likely give you a prescription if you’re diagnosed with it. The antibiotic is a good idea to help prevent some of the complications of strep throat that can crop up, such as kidney issues and rheumatic fever. What Types of Remedies Should I Avoid While Pregnant?Several common remedies should be strictly avoided while pregnant, including:
What Medications Can I Take While Pregnant?Some medicines are safe for use during pregnancy, as long as you follow proper dosing instructions. Always check with your doctor prior to taking medications to make sure they agree the medication you choose will complement your obstetric care:
How Can I Treat a Sore Throat While Pregnant?If you’re experiencing a sore throat while pregnant, there are several things you can do. 1. Take Your Temperature.Before treating your sore throat, make sure you are not running a fever. A fever is any temperature above 100 degrees, which can indicate there is an infection in your body that needs to be treated. A high fever during pregnancy can be dangerous for your baby, particularly in the first trimester, and should be monitored by a physician (9). 2. Take Tylenol.Tylenol is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. If your sore throat is severe, you may take Tylenol, or generic acetaminophen, for pain relief. 3. Gargle with Salt Water.Gargling with warm salt water can help clear your throat of irritants and loosen the mucus. The salt is also soothing and helps to draw out excess moisture. To gargle, add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm — not hot — water, and mix it until dissolved. Take a sip, tip your head back, and gargle so the mixture reaches as far back in your throat as possible. Gargle for about a minute, then spit out the salt water. 4. Drink Tea with Lemon.It can be difficult to drink adequate liquids when you have a sore throat. Choosing hot, soothing drinks will not only keep you hydrated but can help to thin and loosen irritating mucus in the back of the throat. Herbal teas are a popular choice during pregnancy because they are naturally decaffeinated. However, it’s important to note that many herbs also have medicinal properties and, in certain quantities, may be harmful. Because these herbs are not regulated by the FDA and are not widely studied, there is little agreement in the medical community about what is safe and what is not. Check with your doctor about any herbal teas you plan to consume. Avoid teas that contain cinnamon, licorice, chamomile and red raspberry leaf specially in the first trimester. 5. Use Throat Lozenges or Throat Sprays.Throat lozenges and throat sprays are generally safe for use during pregnancy, so feel free to use them to coat your throat. Some also have menthol to help relieve other cold symptoms, and most throat sprays have antiseptic in them to help numb your throat from the pain. If choosing a multi-symptom throat lozenge, make sure you need all the treatments listed; if not, opt for a single-use lozenge, such as one that only soothes the throat. Choosing a multi-symptom lozenge when you don’t have a cold that needs treating can cause you to over-medicate. Avoid zinc lozenges that are designed to fight a cold rather than just soothe symptoms. Always check with your doctor before taking any medication — even if it is over the counter. 6. Rest.When you’re pregnant, your immunity is not up to par.
Editor's Note: Dr. Njoud Jweihan, MD The Bottom LineA sore throat can be incredibly uncomfortable during pregnancy, but the good news is it’s rarely serious. More often than not — as long as it’s not accompanied by fever — a sore throat is simply the result of a cold virus or environmental irritants. However, always check with your doctor before taking any medication — even if it is over the counter. Feedback: Was This Article Helpful? Thank You For Your Feedback! Thank You For Your Feedback! How can I treat a sore throat while pregnant?You can try the following:. Gargle with warm salt water to help your sore throat feel better.. Avoid cold liquids, which can aggravate a sore throat. Instead, try caffeine-free herbal teas, such as chamomile or lemon tea with cinnamon. Be sure to stay hydrated.. Get plenty of rest to allow your body to heal.. What can I take for a cold and sore throat while pregnant?Safe OTC Cold and Flu Treatment to Use During Pregnancy. Acetaminophen (Tylenol). Actifed.. Saline nasal drops or spray.. Sudafed.. Tylenol Sinus.. Tylenol Cold and Flu.. Warm salt/water gargle.. What medicine can I take while pregnant for a cold?Dextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) ... . Guaifenesin (Mucinex) ... . Older (1st generation) antihistamines. ... . Newer (2nd generation) antihistamines. ... . Intranasal corticosteroids. ... . Decongestants. ... . Acetaminophen (Tylenol) ... . Intranasal corticosteroids.. Does sore throat during pregnancy affect baby?Although it does not often happen, untreated strep throat during pregnancy can lead to serious medical complications in both the woman and the fetus.
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