Pregnancy Flu Remedies

If you get the flu while you are pregnant, it can be a horrible experience. Not only do you feel terrible, but you are not sure what you can take to treat it. Certain treatments are considered safe while you are pregnant, including some that don't even use medication. Talk to your doctor before combining any medications to prevent drug interactions.

Acetaminophen

• Acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, is considered safe for pregnancy. Take it according to the dosing instructions. Use it to treat fever and body aches. Never take aspirin or ibuprofen during pregnancy. These drugs are not considered safe.

Decongestant

• Certain decongestants are considered safe during pregnancy. They include Chlorpheniramine, which is commonly referred to as Chlortrimeton. You can take Pseudoephedrine, which is more commonly known as Sudafed if you are in your second or third trimester. Do not take it if you are in your first trimester. It has been linked to gastroschisis when taken in the first trimester, which causes a baby's intestines to be born outside his body.

Cough Medicine

• Most doctors will allow you to take dextromethorphan, which is found in Robitussin. Get your doctor's approval first. Make sure that the cough syrup you are taking does not have any other active ingredients. It is common to find cough syrups with more than one active ingredient. Sugar or honey-based lozenges are also allowed.

Fluids

• It is easy to become dehydrated when you have the flu, especially if you are running a fever. Try to drink lots of fluids. Water is a great choice. You can also have juice and caffeine-free beverages. Hot tea is a great choice if you have a sore throat. It will help soothe your throat. Make sure it is caffeine-free. Be sure to ask your doctor before drinking any herbal teas.

Rest

• It can be easy to become overtired when you pregnant and sick. Be sure to get plenty of rest. Take a sick day and stay home from work. Stay in bed as much as possible. Have your partner cook or get takeout. Getting the rest you need will help prevent a relapse or from the flu getting worse.

Humdifier

• A humidifier or vaporizer adds moisture to the air. This will help with nasal drainage, or post-nasal drip. A cool mist humidifier does not use any form of medication, so it is safe during pregnancy. A vaporizer can be medicine free, but you can also add oils to it. Essential oils, like lavender or eucalyptus, can help relieve your symptoms. Speak to your doctor before adding any oils to your vaporizer. Be careful if you choose a vaporizer. It emits steam, which can cause burns.