When you enter your last trimester, particularly nine months, you become vulnerable to various mild ailments. You may get itchy feet, swollen body, nausea, morning sickness, fluctuation in blood pressure, etc. Likewise, it’s common to become the victim of cold, scratchy or sore throat, or flu at the end of the pregnancy. In this condition, most pregnant women prefer cough drops to get relief. However, some women may be scared and confused about whether cough drops are safe or not during pregnancy. Therefore, reading this article may help you decide whether to use cough drops.
Cough drops
According to Methyl-Life PRO “Cough drops, also known as lozenges, are small medicated candies or tablets that dissolve in the mouth. You may get a scratchy throat and cough from the common cold and influenza; cough drops provide temporary relief from tickly cough and sore throat. Generally, it is considered that cough drops are safe during pregnancy and available over the counter. Keep in mind that lozenges are a temporary treatment for cough and sinus inflammation. If your cough is not disappeared after two weeks, stop using cough drops and call your doctor.”
How do cough drops offer you relief?
Cough drops contain almost safe chemicals that work on infected areas and make you comfortable. Their composition can be varied from brand to brand. Cough drops consist of both active and inactive ingredients.
Active ingredient
- Eucalyptus
- Benzocaine
- Peppermint oil
- Dextromethorphan
- Menthol
Inactive ingredients
Here, inactive ingredients mean natural such as;
- Thyme
- Horehound
- Peppermint
- Lemon balm
- Linden flowers
- Hyssop
- Sage
- Wild thyme
Can I use cough drops during pregnancy?
It is safe to take cough drops during pregnancy, but you need to be cautious while using cough drops. These cough drops may alleviate your cold symptoms and keep you hydrated. In this condition, your immune system is less active, good for baby growth, and you are more prone to mild alignments. You forget to drink more water when you experience constant cough and throat pain. The deficiency of water may harm your baby. For most women, cough drops or candies can be the best option.
If you are already battling serious problems like gestational diabetes, consult your doctor before using cough drops. You need to read the ingredient list carefully. It’s mandatory to bring this to your knowledge; many cough drops carry corn syrup or sweeteners that may hike your glucose level. Opt sugar-free cough drops such as;
- HALLS Relief Honey-Lemon Sugar-Free Cough Drops
- Ricola Cough Suppressant Throat Drops
You should take a moderate dose of cough drops regardless of worse symptoms. Sometimes overdose may cause serious health issues.
Alternative to cough drops
There are various alternative treatments available that can be helpful for you. Before moving towards medications, you should try natural or home remedies during pregnancy to cure tickly cough and sore throat. You need to try the following alternatives;
- Perform gargle with salt water 3 to 4 times a day
- Apply saline nose drops or sprays
- Eat nutrients rich food
- Drink lots of water and fluids
- Drink chamomile, ginger, and lemon tea with honey
- Get enough sleep
- Use a humidifier in your room
Conclusion
Cough drops are usually safe for pregnant women; if you are battling underlying health conditions like gestational diabetes, visit your health provider before using cough drops during pregnancy. You need medical attention if you experience worse symptoms that may cause more serious health problems.
