I've got the flu, what can I do?

[Maruschke]

Im 30+ weeks pregnant, and woke up with a horrible flu . It is hard enough to breath as it is with a baby up close to my lungs, and this flu makes it worse. I am tired, I just want to lie down but it makes the heartburn horrendous.

What can I do for a flu? I am allergic to pseudoephedrine.

[Arimeh]

You can take mersyndol day strength - might help your head if its sore... and polarmine (sp?) tablets for the nose... do you have a vaporiser? they are great with some drops in them... ummmmm..... and sleep sitting up - helps to reduce the swelling in your nose if its blocked

[Maruschke]

Thanks hun. I don't have a vapouriser, but sipping lemon and honey right now. Ugh I hate the flu.

[Arimeh]

If you came up to visit you could borrow ours

[blueiris]

There's a nasal spray called "Otriven", it's a saline based spray that is safe during pregnancy. I was told to use it by my GP when i recently had a virus which blocked me right up too. It really helped me to be able to breathe normally.

You can take painkillers with codiene in them like Panadeine, just make sure no ibuprofen in it. Unfortunately we can't take any of the cold & flu products on the market while pregnant. Just make sure you keep your fluids intake up too.

Take care & i hope you feel better soon.

[Toomanytoomany]

Oscar you poor thing! I hope it doesn't last too long. Paracetamol and lots and lots of fluids is about it... I hope you're able to put your feet up.

[Maruschke]

Thanks Blue & TMTM. I have some fess, I'll use that, some panadol, and have a sleep (sitting up ).

Mel haha I'm not up to it today, but I am really looking forward to it!

[Bloom]

Poor Candice! I hope you feel better soon! My mother would suggest a good steam inhalation would help clear your nose (bowl of steaming water, head draped in a towel, obviously be careful cause you wouldn't want to burn your lovely bump!).

[roses]

I have a home remedy that I've used for years - whoever I pass it on too seems to love it as well.

Take a clove of garlic and the same amount of ginger, chop up and throw in a mug. Add the juice of a lemon and a good squeeze of honey.If you are not pregnant at the time then I also suggest a splash of brandy (helps you sleep). Now top with boiling water and sip, as the drink gets cooler you need to eat the garlic and the ginger. I know it sounds terrible but it is the clue to waking up better the next day.

I drink these the second I feel any symptom coming on and I have not had the flu in ten years......GOOD LUCK - Remember to eat the garlic/ginger or it wont work.