With the cooling of the weather, especially during the autumn and winter months, influenza and the common cold become more frequent. This condition, which occurs due to a weakened immune system, is very common even in normal times and negatively affects daily life, but when it occurs during pregnancy, it creates a situation that is both worrying and uncomfortable.
Flu and Colds During Pregnancy
Although influenza and the common cold are often considered similar illnesses, a closer examination of their causes and consequences reveals they are two very different diseases. Influenza is caused by influenza viruses. Because the virus frequently changes its form, it causes widespread epidemics worldwide and can have dangerous consequences if left untreated. The common cold, on the other hand, is caused by viruses called rhinoviruses and primarily affects the nasal mucosa. Symptoms are more severe in influenza; while the common cold generally affects the nose, influenza affects the entire body. Both illnesses can be transmitted through the respiratory tract or through hand contact.
Flu Symptoms:
- Dry cough
- Fire
- General feeling of pain in the body
- Nasal congestion or runny nose
- Severe headache
- Feeling tired and weak
- Anorexia
Symptoms of a Common Cold:
- Runny nose
- Sneeze
- Cough
- Mild headache
- Mild fever
- Watery eyes
Treatment of Colds and Flu During Pregnancy
Getting the flu during pregnancy can lead to infections like pneumonia if left untreated. If early intervention isn't provided, the illness can become even more complicated. During pregnancy, changes occur in the immune system, as well as the circulatory and respiratory systems, which increases the risk of complications when the mother-to-be gets the flu. Furthermore, if the flu is contracted in the later months of pregnancy, there is a higher risk of the illness being passed to the baby after birth.
To prevent all of this, expectant mothers can get a flu vaccine. The flu vaccine protects the mother through the antibodies it produces, and it will also protect the baby from the flu in the first few months after birth. They can strengthen their immune system by frequently eating foods rich in vitamin C. In addition, expectant mothers should avoid crowded and enclosed spaces as much as possible and wash their hands frequently. Furthermore, regular sleep and a healthy, balanced diet will also provide protection against the flu and common colds.
I wish you a healthy pregnancy, free from illness.
Source :
- Munoz FM. A step ahead. Infant protection through maternal immunization. Pediatr Clin North Am – 01-Apr-2000; 47(2): 449-63
- Munoz FM. Vaccines in pregnancy. Infect Dis Clin North Am – 01-Mar-2001; 15(1): 253-71
- Prevention and Control of Influenza – Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices: MMWR: April 12, 2002 / 51(RR03);1-31
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