Flu During Pregnancy
Is It OK To Have The Flu During Pregnancy?
Having the flu during pregnancy can not only be extremely uncomfortable and worrisome, but there are some shocking new developments happening in the psychiatric world regarding the long term effects of flu during pregnancy. Though the subject has not yet been plastered on the news or into medical journals, there is now scientific proof that schizophrenia is three times more likely to happen to those whose mothers were infected with influenza during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. This has been rumored in the past, but the scientific data collected from control patients is now conclusive.
The flu shot is currently believed to be safe when given during pregnancy, though there has been some controversy in the past over the risks which may or may not be involved. The general consensus now, however, is that an ounce worth of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that the vaccination for flu during pregnancy is worth the slight risk of illness associated. Those who are allergic to eggs cannot have the flu shot, however, as the vaccination virus is grown in eggs before it is killed, and this egg element cannot be completely separated from the vaccine. And, because the influenza virus continues to evolve into new strains with each passing season, the vaccination is never 100% effective.
Flu during pregnancy causes a bit of concern when it comes to symptom relief, and most pregnant women are forced to suffer through with little or no help from over the counter medications. These poor souls will be forced to resort to the old fashioned home remedies that we have learned over the past century, and luckily there are some very good ones to choose from. When a woman suffers the flu during pregnancy, she will be restricted to the use of acetaminophen for pain, discomfort, and fever. All decongestants are considered as off limits to the expectant mother as their potential effects on the unborn child cannot be measured and are therefore not trusted.
Some great symptomatic treatments for mothers who suffer flu during pregnancy are readily available right in the home, and can be of sound relief. First, warm, moist compresses can be applied to the sinus area and to the head and temples. This will help to loosen and sooth congestion and afford easier breathing. Aromatherapy is another great option, and if you can use aromatic steam that would be even better. Pouring boiling water into the sink with some ginger, eucalyptus, or Vicks Vaporub, put a towel around the back of your head and shoulders and then lean over the sink, causing a tent for the steam to roll into. Breathe deeply for ten minutes.