The pollinators are out in abundance! And though this means our gardens are getting the best of the buzzy wuzzys, our sinuses, tear ducts and throats are suffering terribly with the effects of hay fever. Getting hay fever is a pain, and we usually rely on over-the-counter medicines to help the symptoms. But some of these medicines can be harmful to your unborn baby, especially in the first trimester.
So here are some tips & natural remedies to treat yourself while keeping baby safe:
The headache
First, relax. Try taking a warm shower or practice deep breathing in a dark room.
For a sinus headache put a warm compress on your face, concentrating on the eyes and nose. For a tension headache take cool water on a towel, or an ice pack, and lay it on the base of the neck.
Congestion
A stuffy and runny nose is very common in pregnancy. Try drinking plenty of water, and keeping your head elevated while resting.
If this doesn’t help you can try taking a warm shower to let the steam ease the congestion, or try investing in a humidifier or vaporizer.
Sore throat
Keep hydrated but stay away from ice cold liquids. Try mixing honey and lemon in hot water to help ease the irritation and dryness. Another remedy is to gargle with warm salt water to draw any bacteria out.
The tummy-ache
Get some fresh air and try to take slow, deep breaths. Sip on water, or make a natural tea with ginger or peppermint.
If it is possible to eat, stick to the BRAT diet (bananas, apple sauce, rice, toast).
Check with your doctor
If none of these remedies are helpful to you, check with your doctor or midwife to make sure which medicines and treatments will be safe for you and your baby. However, usually for allergies nasal sprays, nose drops or eye drops are safe, as last resorts, but check with your GP or midwife to be sure.
maternity&infant
Originally posted 2014-06-24 11:07:17.