What can you do for a sore throat while breastfeeding?

Understanding Sore Throats While Breastfeeding
Experiencing a sore throat while breastfeeding can be uncomfortable and concerning for nursing mothers. However, there are several effective strategies to alleviate the discomfort while ensuring the safety of both mother and baby.
Safe Medications
When it comes to medication, options like paracetamol and ibuprofen are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. These can help relieve pain and reduce any accompanying fever or body aches. If symptoms persist, a healthcare provider may prescribe a throat spray specifically designed to ease throat pain.
Additionally, lozenges and throat sprays such as Strepsils® or Ultra-Chloraseptic can provide temporary relief. These products have been used extensively by breastfeeding mothers, and while there is limited data on their effects on infants, they are typically regarded as safe.
Natural Remedies
For those who prefer natural remedies, several options can help soothe a sore throat. Gargling with salt water is a time-honored method; simply dissolve 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water, gargle, and spit it out. This can provide temporary relief from throat irritation.
Another soothing option is lemon-honey water, which not only helps to coat the throat but also provides hydration. Sucking on ice cubes can also be beneficial, as the cold can numb the throat and reduce pain.
Precautions While Breastfeeding
While it is safe to continue breastfeeding when experiencing a sore throat, mothers should take certain precautions to protect their infants. It’s advisable to avoid face-to-face contact to minimize the risk of transmitting any illness. Regular handwashing is crucial, especially after coughing or sneezing.
Conclusion
In summary, managing a sore throat while breastfeeding involves a combination of safe medications, natural remedies, and careful hygiene practices. By taking these steps, nursing mothers can find relief while continuing to provide the best care for their little ones. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially when considering new medications or if symptoms worsen.

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.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?

Zyrtec, although generally safe, is not recommended during breastfeeding because it passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Possible side effects on the baby include irritation or lethargy. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.

Can I take Tylenol cold 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 is the safest antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Cold and allergy meds that are safe while breastfeeding include: Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are the recommended antihistamines when breastfeeding. Other antihistamines are also considered safe but do not have as much research to support this. These include Allegra and Xyzal.

How to treat a common cold while breastfeeding?

Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough. The amount found in breast milk after taking it is very low, so it should be safe for your baby. Guaifenesin is an expectorant.

What cold medicine is 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 can breastfeeding moms take for a sore throat?

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.

Will my baby catch my cold if I breastfeed?

With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing. Continuing to breastfeed will help you to maintain your milk supply and will provide your baby with protection against the illness you are experiencing.

What throat drops are safe while breastfeeding?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.

Can you 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.