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What medicine to take for a sore throat while breastfeeding?

Understanding Sore Throat Relief While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing common ailments like sore throats without compromising their health or that of their infants. Fortunately, there are several safe options available for alleviating throat discomfort during this sensitive time.
Safe Medications for Sore Throat
When it comes to medication, paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen are widely recommended as safe choices for breastfeeding mothers dealing with a sore throat. These medications not only help relieve pain but can also reduce fever and body aches that may accompany throat irritation.
In addition to these oral pain relievers, throat sprays and lozenges can provide localized relief. Products containing benzocaine are particularly effective, as they have low oral absorption, meaning that the concentration in breast milk is minimal and unlikely to affect the infant. Lozenges and pastilles, such as Strepsils® or Ultra-Chloraseptic, are also considered safe and can help soothe the throat.
Home Remedies and Additional Relief
Beyond over-the-counter medications, several home remedies can be beneficial. Gargling with salt water is a simple yet effective method to ease throat pain. Dissolving 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargling can provide temporary relief .
Staying hydrated is crucial, so drinking warm fluids like herbal teas or broths can also help soothe the throat and keep the body hydrated. Additionally, using a humidifier in the bedroom can alleviate dryness in the air, which may further irritate a sore throat.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
While many sore throats are minor and can be managed at home, it’s important for breastfeeding mothers to consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. This is especially true if there are accompanying symptoms such as a high fever, severe pain, or difficulty swallowing. A healthcare professional can provide tailored advice and may prescribe specific treatments that are safe for both mother and baby.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have several safe options for treating a sore throat, including over-the-counter medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen, throat sprays, and home remedies like saltwater gargles. By taking these steps, mothers can find relief while ensuring the well-being of their infants.

How to get rid of a 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.

Will Mucinex dry up milk supply?

Neela. “Just as they dry up your nasal congestion, they can also dry up your breast milk.

What sore throat medicine is safe 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 take anything for a cold while breastfeeding?

Pain relievers, nonsedating antihistamines, nasal sprays, and over-the-counter cough medicines are generally safe to take while breastfeeding. However, people should avoid ingredients that cause drowsiness, irritability, and reduced milk production.

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.

What antibiotics can breastfeeding moms take for strep throat?

All penicillin antibiotics can be used during breastfeeding with precautionary infant monitoring. Flucloxacillin, phenoxymethylpenicillin (penicillin V) and the broad-spectrum penicillins, such as amoxicillin and ampicillin, are the preferred choices as there is more evidence and experience to support their use.

What kills a sore throat fast while breastfeeding?

Experts agree that cough drops/lozenges and sore throat sprays, such as Chloraseptic are safe to use while breastfeeding, as well.

Can I pass strep throat to my baby?

It’s extremely unlikely that your baby will get strep. Babies rarely become infected, probably because the antibodies they receive before birth are still at work and most babies have very small tonsils.

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.

Is DayQuil ok while 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).

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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