Sore Throat During Pregnancy

What is Sore Throat? It is an inflammation of the throat, which is very painful and reddened during pregnancy. You may experience trouble swallowing and even breathing. (Source) What Causes A Sore Throat? A sore throat is a sensation of irritation in the back of the throat. It can differ from mild to severe, or you may suffer from minor itching, rawness, burning pain, rough throat, sandpaper-like-scratching, sharp pains like swallowing glass. It can be caused by a multitude of things, from environmental irritants to viruses to pregnancy hormones. In this article, I'd like to share important factors that cause Sore Throat During Pregnancy.. Viruses: Most sore throats are caused by viruses, that's also the culprits responsible for the common cold and seasonal flu. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, which usually just must run their course over 5 to 7 days. Some viruses are very powerful. To minimize the flu virus chances is to get your annual flu vaccination at the beginning of the pregnancy month which will protect you and your baby. Pregnant women are harshly affected by the flu and this can create complications during pregnancy. Sever flu during pregnancy may cause pre-term delivery or low birth weight. Bacteria: Another reason for sore throat is bacteria and can be treated with prescription antibiotics. Strep throat is one of the most common types of bacterial infection. One of the hallmarks of strep throat is a white coating or white spots on the back of the throat accompanied by a high fever. It is important to finish the antibiotics curse even if you feel better. Antibiotic resistance caused by insufficient treatment may lead to more infections with stronger bacteria. Environmental Irritants: You may feel discomfort due to irritates or pollutants or chemicals. These include dry air, dust, pollen or other allergens, smoke, and chemicals. If your house is dry, try running a humidifier to moisten the air. Postnasal Drip: As your sinuses drain, the mucus drips down the back of your throat, that can be severely irritating to it and may cause a chronic cough. Weak Immune System The immune system lowers its strength during pregnancy to protect the baby from any attack by your body. This is the reason that your body to be more receptive to all sorts of diseases. Pregnancy hormones: Your body may suffer several oral symptoms, including dry mouth, excessive thirst, and sore throat during pregnancy. Acid Reflux: Acid reflux happens when the contents or acids of the stomach, back up into the esophagus. It mostly due to one of the main pregnancy hormones, progesterone. This hormone has been shown to relax the muscles in your esophagus, the track the food travels down to the stomach. In turn, it is easier for food to be brought back up causing the symptoms of acid reflux that resemble the irritation and burning of a sore throat. When should you go to the doctor? If your symptoms are severe or not last within 24 hours, talk to your health care provider. What is the Treatment? You should try natural remedies such as salt-water gargle or hot water mixed with honey and lemon. If these don't help, you can take acetaminophen for the pain. There are more chances to get an illness during pregnancy because you're more susceptible to infection. Your immune system lowers slightly during pregnancy so your body can't reject your developing baby. Pregnant women mostly become congested, that may lead to a sore throat. Contact with Doctor if: High fever along with sore throat. Make it difficult to swallow or breathe. Sore throat is severe or lasts more than three days. You want to take an over-the-counter medication. You have chronic heartburn that is causing your sore throat. Step-by-Step Care: • Gargle with warm saltwater twice a day. • Drink a soothing herbal tea or hot water along with lemon and honey. • Take a prenatal vitamin daily. • Drink plenty of water to be hydrated, get plenty of rest and reduce stress. • Eat healthy foods, especially fruits and vegetables to boost your immune system and fight against infection.