Pregnancy Tips

Common problems and remedies in pregnancy

Sinus congestion – Tylenol sinus products, Chloraseptic throat spray, Cepacol lozenges, Robitussin 1-2 tsp every 4 hours for cough, Benadryl 25 mg.
Headache – Tylenol 1-2 tablets every 4 hours not to exceed 4000 mg in a 24 hour period. No asprin or NSAIDS such as Motrin, Alleve, Advil or ibuprofen
Backache – Caused by increased curvature of the spine as the uterus enlarges, stretching ligaments and muscles. Use straight posture when walking or sitting, low heels, firm mattress, warm bath, ice or heating pad.
Round ligament pain – Symptoms consist of lower abdominal pain on either side of the uterus radiating to the groin. Brief bed rest and limitation of activity accompanied by a heating pad and Tylenol may help.
Varicose veins or swelling – Caused by increased pressure on the lower extremity veins as the uterus enlarges. Support hose with reduced standing time coupled with limit of salt intake may help. Try resting on your left side at least 15 minutes 3 times a day.
Hemorrhoids – Avoid straining and constipation. Stay well hydrated. You may use over the counter stool softeners, topical ointments and warm soaks.
Nausea – Morning sickness usually disappears after the third month. Try eating a few crackers, dry cereal or dry toast as soon as you get up. Eat 5-6 small meals and never go long periods without eating. Drink plenty of fluids. Ginger ale will sometimes help.
Heartburn – Avoid greasy, fried or highly seasoned foods. You may take Tums, Maalox, Mylanta, Tums or Rolaids. If this doesn’t work you can take Pepcid, Zantac or Prilosec.
Constipation – Increase your exercise. Drink plenty of water. Eat fiber, fruits and vegetables. Eat meals at regular times and don’t skip meals. Colase and Surfak are stool softeners that can be taken as directed. Senokot may be used as a laxative if you are severely constipated.
Muscle cramps – Very common in pregnancy. Sometimes increased calcium intake with Tums, Rolaids, milk and other dairy products may help.
Diarrhea – If it lasts for over 24 hours you may take Imodium AD. Stay well hydrated.
Dizziness or shortness of breath – Very common in pregnancy due to blood pressure changes associated with sudden position changes. Avoid prolonged standing or sudden movements. Try to avoid hot baths and showers as this may worsen the dizziness.