What can I take for a sore throat while breastfeeding?

Understanding Sore Throats While Breastfeeding
Experiencing a sore throat can be particularly uncomfortable for breastfeeding mothers, who often worry about the safety of medications for both themselves and their infants. Fortunately, there are several effective remedies and medications that are considered safe during breastfeeding.
Safe Medications for Sore Throat Relief
When it comes to over-the-counter medications, paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen are widely recommended for treating sore throats while breastfeeding. These medications not only alleviate pain but can also help reduce any accompanying fever or body aches. They are generally considered safe for nursing mothers, as only minimal amounts pass into breast milk.
In addition to these pain relievers, throat sprays and lozenges can provide localized relief. Products like Strepsils® and Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray® are commonly used and have been reported to have little to no adverse effects on breastfed infants. For those who prefer a more natural approach, saltwater gargles can be an effective home remedy. Mixing 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water can help soothe a sore throat temporarily.
Natural Remedies and Precautions
For mothers looking for natural remedies, options such as lemon-honey water and sucking on ice cubes can provide soothing effects. These methods not only help relieve throat discomfort but also keep the body hydrated. However, it’s essential to be cautious with any home remedies, ensuring they do not interfere with breastfeeding or the baby’s health.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
While many medications and remedies are safe, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and circumstances. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention is crucial to rule out any underlying conditions.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can find relief from sore throats through a combination of safe medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen, throat sprays, and natural remedies. By staying informed and consulting healthcare professionals, mothers can effectively manage their symptoms while ensuring the safety and well-being of their infants.

Can I take throat lozenges while breastfeeding?

Sore throat
Lozenges or throat gargles containing local anaesthetic, antibacterial agents or benzydamine may be used while breastfeeding. Avoid products containing povidone-iodine (e.g. Betadine®) as it may affect the thyroid function of your baby.

Can I have honey while breastfeeding?

Yes, it is ok for a breastfeeding mother to eat honey. Botulism is not transmitted by breast milk. The Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program recommends continuing breast feeding or the feeding of expressed breast milk during the illness and recovery from infant botulism.

Can I take Tylenol cold and Flu while breastfeeding?

Many medicines are safe to use when you breastfeed. These include: Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Some cold and influenza (flu) medicines.

What medicine is OK to take for a cold while breastfeeding?

Dextromethorphan. This cold medicine is considered safe for breastfeeding moms and babies. Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects. Pseudoephedrine.

What helps a cold and sore throat while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
2. Gargle some salt water.
3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

What is the safest antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Non-sedating antihistamines are the preferred choice for a breastfeeding mother: Loratadine (Clarityn®) (Powell 2007, Hilbert 1997), Cetirizine (Zirtek®, BecoAllergy®, Piriteze®, Benadryl®) reaches low levels in breastmilk and is recommended by the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (Powell 2007)

Is DayQuil safe for breastfeeding?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

What medicine helps sore throat while breastfeeding?

Sore throat
Throat lozenges containing local anaesthetic, antibacterial agents or benzydamine may be used while breastfeeding. Avoid excessive use as it may cause unwanted side effects such as diarrhoea. Gargling salt water or drinking lemon and honey products may also help to ease a sore throat.

Can I breastfeed if I have a sore throat?

If you have a cold or a sore throat, you should still continue to breastfeed your baby. Doing so will pass on immunity cells so that your baby can fight this specific infection.