To the pregnant woman, having flu may not give her any feeling of delight. She must be careful what to use and must have the proper interventions to minimize complications.
Flu is a virus transmitted through droplet. This is common during fall and winter seasons. The disease is accompanied by high fever, extreme prostration, headache, fatigue and lethargy, loss of appetite, a sore or raw throat, and pains in the joints, back and extremities.
Flu is not equivalent to a bad cold; it usually is far more serious. During pregnancy, the immune system of a woman is often weak. This makes her susceptible to flu and can put her at risk of complications such as Pneumonia. The symptoms of flu on pregnant women can be a lot worse and longer than on any average person.
When you’re pregnant, the levels of hormones in your body are usually at their peak. Hormonal changes such as these can cause a buildup of mucus leading to nasal congestion. If flu brings the same type of symptom to the pregnant woman, the symptom can be much worse. In addition, a pregnant woman is often prohibited to take flu-relief medications especially during the first trimester when fetal development is rampant. The substances from these medications can cross the placental barrier and may cause untoward side effects to the developing fetus.
Flu can pose low risks to both the mother and the unborn baby. But the risk can increase in the presence of flu complications such as dehydration and pneumonia. Maternal conditions such as asthma can exacerbate flu symptoms.
Although if a woman has fever and is suffering from pain, some medications can be offered. Pain medications such as Paracetamol and Acetaminophen can be used to relieve pain and control body temperature at the same time. These medications are proven safe for use during pregnancy although consultation with your health care provider is still a must before any drug intake.
Conservative management is also an option. Instead of relying on medication, pregnant women can try steam inhalation to relieve nasal congestion. A warm compress over the nasal passages can relieve sinus pressure and headache. Applying a small amount of “Vicks” vapor rub on a hanky and inhaling it can also provide relief.
Flu vaccines are also available as a preventive option. Although the use of flu vaccines is still controversial up to now, some doctors would still recommend it. For them, prevention is always better than cure. It is also important to know that being immunized with flu vaccines cannot guarantee 100% prevention of the disease. Flu comes in different strains and a lot of new strains appear each year.
To prevent flu, it is advisable to stay away from people who has it, may it be family or friends. You can boost your immune system by eating nutritious foods rich in Vitamin C. Most importantly, reduce stress and get a good amount of sleep.
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