Pregnant, I have a cold: how to react?
In the event of a cold (or nasopharyngitis, it’s the same disease), we remain attentive to the symptoms: if the nose is blocked, if it runs, if it itches … physiological saline, for example twice a day.
If the rhinitis is accompanied by headaches, paracetamol can be taken – maximum 3 grams per day. Self-medication is avoided as much as possible without medical advice: essential oils, for example, are to be excluded. Finally, no need to dip into your stock of antibiotics: they only fight bacteria while the common cold is of viral origin!
Doctor’s advice: ” be careful that the common cold does not get worse! To heal as quickly as possible, opt for preventive measures that are easy to implement: wash your hands several times a day, wear gloves on public transport, avoid busy public places – supermarkets, shopping centers, etc. . “
Pregnant, I have the flu: what to do?
Warning ! In a pregnant woman, the flu is never trivial. Indeed: the flu virus attacks an immune system already weakened by pregnancy, and the consequences (pneumonia, for example) can be extremely serious for mother and child!
As soon as the first flu-like symptoms appear (a rise in temperature, a dry cough, muscle pain similar to stiffness) it is therefore essential to make an appointment with your general practitioner or gynecologist – without delay.
Doctor’s advice: ” influenza vaccination is strongly recommended during pregnancy! Between October and February, pregnant women can obtain a voucher from their attending physician or gynecologist in order to be vaccinated against the flu free of charge in a pharmacy or doctor’s office. “
Winter illnesses: fever, a symptom that should not be ignored
Are you pregnant and suffering from a minor cold, a small sore throat, a small sinusitis? Warning: “the” symptom to watch out for during pregnancy is fever. “ Take your temperature every day, ideally in the morning: if your fever exceeds 38 ° C, you must go to the doctor – or even to the Emergency Department if your fever is even higher. “
Indeed: a fever above 38 ° C (associated with persistent fatigue or back pain or pain during urination …) can constitute an alarm signal indicating a disease related to pregnancy or (worse!) fetal suffering that can lead to dramatic consequences …
Doctor’s advice: ” Don’t be afraid to give your doctor a quick phone call in the event of a fever over 38 ° C: better to worry for nothing than to miss a serious problem … “
Thanks to Dr. Pia de Reilhac, obstetrician-gynecologist and president of the National Federation of Colleges of Medical Gynecology (FNCGM).
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