A strep throat is caused by the group A Streptococcus bacteria, and is the most common infection of the throat. For most people, it’s irritating, inconvenient and uncomfortable. If you’re pregnant, though, you already have a lot to think about, and don’t need the added strain of a bad throat. Strep throat usually resolves itself within a week’s time. Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics to rule out the chances of complications. If you can’t take prescription drugs, your throat may take a little longer to heal, but it will heal nonetheless.
The first step you need to take is to boost your immune system. This will help your body fight off the infection better and faster. You can do this by following a proper diet, and taking plenty of rest. Remember to eat wholesome, healthy meals, and to include all the major food groups in it. Eat a lot of greens and fruit. If you’re not already doing this for your pregnancy, you need to stay away from intoxicants like alcohol and cigarettes. Try to rest as much as you can throughout the day, and try not to exert your body too much. This will allow your body’s defences to concentrate on fighting the infection.
There are also some home remedies for strep throat that you can try. These include:
- Gargle several times a day with warm, salty water. Mix half a spoon of salt in a glass of water, and gargle with it. Don’t swallow the water, spit it out! The salty water will act to kill the bacteria.
- Drink cold, non aerated drinks or suck on popsicles. This will soothe the throat. It is a common misconception that low temperatures worsen the strep.
- You can suck on throat lozenges or hard candies. These are often effective and also soothe the throat.
- Before bed, drink a glass of hot milk with a spoonful of turmeric power mixed into it. Turmeric has strong healing qualities, and is considered as a wonder medicine in eastern culture.
- You can make a room spray with a mix of ravensara, geranium, eucalyptus and palmarosa oils, along with a carrier spray. Spray this in your room for a soothing, relaxing effect.
- Mix some honey and lemon in a glass of hot water to make a tasty and healing honey-lemon drink.
- Garlic, honey, olive leaf extract and tea tree oil are very useful against sore throat.
Remember to keep taking your pre-natal vitamins. Change your toothbrush after your recover, and stay away from other expectant mothers.
answered by G M