Experiencing a cough during pregnancy is troublesome and trying to manage it can be bothersome. Coughing is so common in pregnancy, but it becomes very uncomfortable and irritating.
We understand your problem and guess what we have some remedies to reduce cough during your pregnancy.
Here is a complete guide to reducing cough during your pregnancy.
Causes for Cough During Pregnancy
1.) Allergies:
Pregnancy can make you more sensitive to certain substances such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and mould. Your body’s immune system can react to that allergen more strongly during pregnancy, which can affect the respiratory tract causing cough along with runny nose and sneezing.
2.) Infections:
Pregnant women are more susceptible to colds, flu, and other respiratory infections, due to the changes in the immune system. This could come along with sore, throat, congestion, fever, and body pin. In rare cases, this could lead to problems like bronchitis, or pneumonia, causing persistent cough.
3.) Asthma:
Pregnancy can sometimes worsen asthma symptoms. It increases the blood volume and hormonal changes, which can lead to more frequent asthma attacks, which include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
4.) Heartburn or Acid Reflux:
Pregnancy hormones relax the valve between the stomach and oesophagus, which can cause acid reflux or heartburn. The acid when travels into the oesophagus, irritates the throat, and leads to coughing, especially after eating or lying down.
5.) Hormonal Changes:
Pregnancy causes hormonal changes, where the progesterone level increases the mucus in your nasal passages and throat. This causes congestion and irritation, leading to coughing, especially in the morning or night.
Can a Cough During Pregnancy Affect Baby?
One thing that the new mom doesn’t have to worry about is that the cough is that it does not usually affect the baby. But, if the cause is caused due to respiratory infection, flu or cold, it could affect the overall health of the mother.
This has chances of potentially reflecting on the child, leading to dehydration, lack of sleep, or difficulty breathing. In rare conditions, suppose the cough is accompanied by severe symptoms like fever, chest pain, and shortness of breath, it could indicate serious conditions, which often need medical attention.
Cough Medicines During Pregnancy
If you are thinking of having cough medicines during pregnancy. Well, you can, but with the guidance of your doctor. Many cough medications can be unsafe to pregnancy, especially that contain alcohol, codeine, and other narcotics. Because they affect the fetus negatively within the womb.
Home Remedies For Cough During Pregnancy
Hydration
Staying hydrated throughout the day helps thin mucus and soothes irritation in the throat, which certainly reduces coughing.
Honey and Lemon
Honey and Lemon are a great combo for dry cough. Mix a tablespoon of honey with fresh lemon juice in warm water. Consuming it can soothe sore throat, and help break mucus.
Steaming
Inhaling steam or hot water shower opens up airways, and soothes a dry or irritated throat. This can be done by breathing the steam from the bowl of hot water.
Prenatal Vitamins
Following the prenatal vitamins regularly can support your overall immune system and health. Getting all the essential nutrients that your body needs, not only reduces cough but also helps you prevent other illnesses.
Hot Soup
Broths or hot soups provide hydration, warmth, and refreshment, and also help in soothing your throat.
Humidifier
Place a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture to the air. This can help prevent your throat and nasal passages from drying out. This is highly suitable for dry and heated environments.
Ginger Tea
Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties, that help soothe a sore throat and ease cough. Consuming ginger tea can give the necessary hydration, soothe your throat, and help relieve cough.
Turmeric
Turmeric is loaded with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which when consumed with warm milk or water help fight infections and soothe sore throat.
Salt Water Goggling
Goggling warm salt water can help reduce throat irritation and inflammation. It is a simple and effective remedy to reduce cough and sore throat.
When To Call Doctor For Help?
- Persistent or severe cough lasting more than a couple of weeks, which could indicate underlying respiratory infection, requiring medical attention.
- If a cough leads to shortness of breath, it could be a sign of asthma or pneumonia, which needs medical attention.
- If the cough causes chest pain, tightness, or discomfort, it can indicate more serious conditions, which need immediate medical attention.
- If the cough is accompanied by high fever, chills, body aches, or other flu symptoms, it could be because of an infection, which may require treatment.
- If you notice your mucus with blood, it can become crucial, thus requiring immediate medical attention.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, cough is common during pregnancy, and can be tackled using home remedies like hydration, ginger tea, and avoiding irritants. It does not affect your pregnancy, most of the time.
But, if it is associated with other symptoms or lasts for a long time, considering your doctor is highly recommended. Following these can help combat cough during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Drinking ginger tea can serve as hydration while quieting the throat and breaking a cough.
Honey and Lemon are a great combination for dry cough. A tablespoon of this is mixed with fresh lemon juice in warm water and consumed to soothe sore throat and help break mucus.
