#asktheexpert I’m breastfeeding 7 month old day, I’m having sore throat and dry cough please suggest me some good medicine or tablet which does not affect my milk production

Question

Accepted Answer

When you're breastfeeding and dealing with a sore throat and dry cough, it's important to choose medications that are safe for both you and your baby. Here are some suggestions for managing your symptoms without affecting milk production:

1. Honey and Warm Water: This is a natural remedy that can soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. You can mix a teaspoon of honey in warm water or herbal tea. Honey has antibacterial properties and can help ease throat irritation. However, avoid giving honey to babies under one year old.

2. Gargling with Saltwater: Gargling with warm saltwater several times a day can help reduce throat inflammation and relieve discomfort.

3. Steaming: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can help loosen mucus in your throat and ease coughing. Be careful not to get too close to the steam, and ensure the area is safe.

4. Cough Syrup: You can consider an over-the-counter honey-based cough syrup or those labeled safe for breastfeeding, such as Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or Dextromethorphan, which is commonly found in cough syrups. These are usually safe, but always double-check with your doctor or pharmacist before using them.

5. Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): If you have any fever or pain, paracetamol is safe to take during breastfeeding and won’t affect milk production.

6. Lozenges: Sucking on throat lozenges or candies can help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. Look for ones that contain menthol or eucalyptus, which are generally safe while breastfeeding.

7. Herbal Teas: Drinking ginger tea, lemon balm tea, or chamomile tea can help ease throat irritation. Just be cautious with certain herbs like peppermint in large amounts, as it might affect milk supply in some cases.

As always, when taking any medication while breastfeeding, it’s important to read the labels and consult your doctor or pharmacist to ensure the safety of both you and your baby. Some medications may pass into breast milk, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution and ask for professional advice, especially if you're taking more than one type of medicine. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to visit a healthcare provider for further evaluation.