Pregnancy and motherhood will take a lot out of you, especially if this is your first time breastfeeding. While the act of nursing may come naturally, there is also worry and stress involved. You may even get sick or end up with a sore throat. When this happens, you may need to go on antibiotics or other medication to keep the infection at bay—but that’s a double-edged sword. That medication meant to make you better can pass through your breast milk to your baby. Show
So what do you do? How do you breastfeed with a sore throat? We’re going to answer those questions and more, so keep reading. Causes Of A Sore ThroatA sore throat, which is generally irritation or pain of the throat, is usually a symptom of something else. Here are some of the causes of a sore cold:
Sore Throat SymptomsSore throats, depending on what they are caused by, may be accompanied by other effects, such as swollen glands, tenderness to the touch, painful swallowing, and even swollen tonsils, or tonsillitis. You could also experience a headache, aches, pain, and elevated temperature (fever). If you have other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, a runny nose, chills, coughing, pus on your tonsils, white patches on your tongue, and a hoarse voice, you should see a doctor or other nurse practitioner as soon as possible. When To Seek Medical AssistanceWhile medical attention and medication is not always necessary for a sore throat, there are some instances where it is required. According to a UK survey, people who visited the doctor often saw their symptoms clear up within a week, but most cases took 10 days to disappear. If you have a temperature that doesn’t decrease with medication, a fever upwards of 100 degrees F (38 degrees C), symptoms that linger for a week or more, and specific medical risks (anti-thyroid drugs, spleen removal), you should visit a doctor. Treating A Sore Throat During BreastfeedingThe treatment you are prescribed depends greatly on the cause of your sore throat. Unless the case is severe, or your illness is contagious, you won’t have to worry about strong antibiotics that can pass into your breastmilk. The following treatments are compatible with nursing:
Do not use decongestants, since the ingredients can limit your milk production. Home Remedies For Sore Throats During NursingAside from medications from the pharmacy, you can also tackle a sore throat using home remedies. There are plenty of natural options that will not limit your milk supply or harm your baby.
Remember that, while you are taking care of yourself, you also need to be careful around your little one. Avoid face-to-face contact while you have a sore throat and wash your hands regularly. TakeawayCan you breastfeed when sick? Of course! But you need to take some precautions to protect yourself and the health of your infant. Try natural remedies first, and if you continue having difficulties with your sore throat or your symptoms worsen, you need to go to a doctor. Otherwise, you should be able to get right back to breastfeeding your little one soon! Enjoy this article and looking for more information about breastfeeding? Have questions about nursing when sick? Then fill out the contact form to get more news and updates delivered right to your inbox. What can I take for sore throat while breastfeeding?Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding: Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist. Gargle some salt water. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.
Can I breastfeed if I have a sore throat?If you have a cold or flu, fever, diarrhoea and vomiting, or mastitis, keep breastfeeding as normal. Your baby won't catch the illness through your breast milk – in fact, it will contain antibodies to reduce her risk of getting the same bug. “Not only is it safe, breastfeeding while sick is a good idea.
What medicine can I take while breastfeeding for a cold?In general, pseudoephedrine, dextromethorphan, NSAID pain relievers, acetaminophen, and second-generation allergy medications such as Zyrtec and Claritin are considered safe options for treating cold symptoms while breastfeeding.
What can I take for a sore throat and runny nose while breastfeeding?In general, pseudoephedrine, dextromethorphan, NSAID pain relievers, acetaminophen, and second-generation allergy medications such as Zyrtec and Claritin are considered safe options for treating cold symptoms while breastfeeding.
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