What do I need to consider for my child and baby?
Coughing is one of the most common illnesses that make a visit to the pediatrician’s office necessary for a child or baby. Due to the small diameter of the upper respiratory tract, coughing in children or babies can often hinder their breathing. The most appropriate treatment method depends on both the underlying disease and the actual impairment of the child concerned.
If the cough is caused by a bacterial infection of the upper respiratory tract or the lungs, antibiotic therapy must usually be initiated. In the case of viral respiratory tract infections that are accompanied by a pronounced cough, only symptomatic treatment can be initiated. The symptoms can often be effectively relieved in the affected child or baby by simple household remedies. You can learn more about this topic here: Coughing in babies
What should be considered during pregnancy and lactation?
Particularly during pregnancy and the subsequent breastfeeding period, persistent irritable cough can be very stressful. The reason for this is above all the fact that many of the potent medicines cannot be used without hesitation during pregnancy and lactation. In addition, severe coughing during pregnancy can put additional strain on the pelvic floor and thus lead to severe pain.
But even when using home remedies for coughs, it is important to remember that the use of these drugs should be discussed with the gynaecologist or midwife beforehand. Some household remedies that seem harmless at first glance may have a negative effect on the course of pregnancy or may pass into breast milk during breastfeeding. Especially herbal mixtures used as household remedies for coughs can be dangerous during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Honey, on the other hand, is one of the most popular home remedies for coughs, which can also be used without hesitation during pregnancy and the subsequent breastfeeding period: This household remedy can effectively alleviate the symptoms, especially in the case of a strong, dry cough. The honey can be taken either purely (three to four times daily a tablespoon) or dissolved in warm tea. In addition, elderberry juice is one of the most popular household remedies for coughs during pregnancy and the subsequent nursing period.
Elderberry juice is completely healthy, stimulates the body’s immune system and inhibits inflammatory reactions.This household remedy can be enjoyed warm several times a day and mixed with a little honey or a dash of lemon as needed. Furthermore, inhalation therapy has proven to be particularly effective for coughs during pregnancy and lactation. However, expectant mothers should refrain from inhaling essential oils.
Above all, inhalation therapy with salt water and chamomile can be carried out without hesitation during pregnancy and breastfeeding. When using this household remedy, it must be remembered that inhalation should never be carried out with water that is too hot. Otherwise, the hot vapors can additionally attack the upper respiratory tract, especially the sensitive pharyngeal mucosa, thus aggravating the symptoms.
Since chesty cough can also be a strain during pregnancy and the subsequent breastfeeding period, especially at night, affected women should ventilate the bedroom extensively in the evening if possible. Warm and dry air can otherwise aggravate the symptoms and provoke violent cough attacks. In addition to the usual household remedies, which can also be used without hesitation for coughs during pregnancy and breastfeeding, supporting the hands on a firm surface (e.g. a table) can help to relieve the pelvic floor during a coughing attack.
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