Cough is a common health condition, affecting people of all ages. It can cause discomfort and also hamper your sleep quality. So, it becomes even more crucial to find out the necessary measures when one suffers from a cough during pregnancy. The good news is that many home remedies can be tried to treat coughs without causing any side effects to the baby.
Home Remedies To Treat Cough During Pregnancy
Honey
Honey is an effective natural remedy that has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It strengthens the immune system, relieves sore throats, and suppresses cough. If you want to opt for something that does not taste bad, yet provides relief, you should try consuming honey. A tablespoon of honey dissolved in warm water or tea will ease a cough and soothe a sore throat.
Garlic
From ancient times, people have used garlic, a natural antibiotic, to treat colds and coughs. It is beneficial to treat cough due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties. You can eat raw garlic, and add it to your meals to get relief from cough.
Gargle With Salt Water
Saline water helps loosen mucus and flush out germs, fungi, and allergies from the throat. One teaspoon of salt should be added to one cup of warm water to make a saltwater gargle. For better results, repeat this procedure two to three times daily.
Ginger
Ginger is a popular remedy for coughs and colds because it has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. You can consume ginger tea to help soothe your cough and reduce inflammation in your throat. To strengthen the immune system, ginger can also be used as a supplement or added to food.
Turmeric Milk
Turmeric milk, also known as golden milk, is a powerful antioxidant that can help treat cough. It can help reduce inflammation, improve your immune system, and treat colds. You can even try combining it with ginger for better results.
Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation is another effective way to help loosen your mucus and reduce inflammation. Boil some water in a pot, then turn off the heat to do steam inhalation. For around 10 minutes, place a towel over your head and breathe in the steam. Take care to avoid getting burned by the hot steam. If you want to open up your airways and relax your throat, you may also add a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil to the water.
Other Tips You Should Follow
- You should stay hydrated as drinking enough water will help your body fight infections and maintain the proper balance of minerals in your body.
- Avoid eating heavy meals as they can cause acid reflux during pregnancy, which worsens the condition's cough symptoms.
- You should avoid coming in contact with people who have flu or flu-like symptoms.
To prevent catching a cold or cough, prioritise maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Ensure you consume a nutritious diet, get sufficient sleep, and engage in regular exercise. Also, it's crucial to take both prenatal vitamins and probiotics for overall well-being, as stated by the American Pregnancy Association.
Takeaway
Coughing during pregnancy can be difficult but can be treated with the help of natural remedies. It is advisable to visit your doctor if the cough persists for a long time and is accompanied by symptoms like difficulty breathing.