Going the Natural Way
• Before you reach for the medicine kit,
try a few other remedies first. A neck massage
and a nap can cure you of that headache for instance.
• For cold and allergy symptoms try going
the natural way. Treat the cold as soon as you
feel it; drink lots of water to expel the germs.
Always consult your doctor on what is safe, even
if it’s the minor (but bothersome) bout of sniffle
and sneezes before you reach for any form of antihistamines.
• For a sore itchy throat, gargle with salt
water (hot water) instead of the cough syrup.
• If your temperature is above 101˚F, you
can take a dose of acetaminophen to bring the
fever down and arrange to visit your doctor. Tylenol
is considered safe to take when you have a flu
attack but stay away from all other stuffs sold
specially for flu symptoms.
• Do not take herbs such as Echinacea as
studies on its use during pregnancy is not conclusive.
• Avoid herbal teas containing weird unfamiliar
names like mugwort or cohosh. Check with your
careprovider first.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
in the form of warm water, chicken broth and calcium-fortified
juices.
• Elevate the upper portion of your body,
including your head to help with the congestion.
Use pillows to prop yourself up to help drain
the mucus.
• Try using a humidifier or place a cloth
soaked in hot water over your face. Spray drug-free
nasal drops to keep the area moist
• Check with your doctor on the OTCs you
can take. There are a number of them which are
safe for consumption during pregnancy.
Go with your doctor’s recommendation and avoid
self-medication.
• Excess vitamin C or zinc beyond what is
already in your prenatal formula is not advisable
during pregnancy. Get medical advice first if
you wish to increase the dose.
• Finally give yourself time, get plenty
of rest and eat well since your body needs all
the energy to get back on track.