Colds and flu medications are OK while breastfeeding?

A very common question in the cold and flu season.

If you are sick, many people head for the island of medication to the pharmacy for relief. But if you need to breastfeed, taking into account the possible effects of all drugs on you, your production of milk and the baby.

Most colds and flu medications contain antihistamines and decongestants. Antihistamines are drugs to correct a nose is runny. Decongestants are drugs that treat sinus or nasalCongestion. Unfortunately for those suffering from colds and flu, none of these drugs are recommended during lactation. Why you ask? Since both have been known to adversely affect milk production. Her runny nose may dry out, but your milk.

What can we do? Over the counter pain relievers: acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain. Zinc supplements to reduce the duration of the virus. Guaifenesin (cough) is safe to use during breastfeeding. Use if theCough is not allowing you to sleep. Saline or Afrin nasal spray for nasal congestion. Humidifier in the room. Drink plenty of fluids. Eating a healthy diet.

Some things to consider about the symptoms of colds and flu. The fever is the body's ability to activate the immune system. Fever of 104 degrees are not dangerous, they are beneficial, helping to fight the infection. A runny nose is the body's way of cleansing the sinuses of germs viruses. A production / wet cough should notstopped using drugs. If you stop the cough, the mucus stuck in the lungs and may develop a bacterial infection. The common cold virus causes fever for 2-3 days, nasal discharge and cough for 7-14 days 2-3 weeks.

And the flu vaccine, Tamiflu and breastfeeding? Both are considered safe during lactation.

Is there anything you do to avoid getting sick?

1 Get plenty of rest.
2 Wash your hands frequently, avoid touchingYour face with dirty hands.
3 Blow your nose often. (This is often where the first virus to enter)
4 Gargling with salt water and wash the nasal passages with salt water. (If you pose an irrigation system, nasal passages recycling)
5 Eat a healthy diet, choose foods rich in vitamin C and zinc, are the natural immune system booster.
6 Drink warm liquids to wash the seeds directly into the gastrointestinal tract, where they can not stand a chance!

In summary,Prevention saves a lot of discomfort with a cold or flu. But if you develop a cold or the flu, remember to check all the counter medications with a lactation consultant or doctor. Many mothers take over the counter medication during breastfeeding safe. This is not the case. It is advisable to check with your pediatrician or lactation consultant before taking medications.

Liz Pevytoe, RN, IBCLC, a lactation consultant Board Certified. You can sendQuestions of drugs for them using the link below.

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