There is nothing worse than being pregnant and sick all at the same time.  Not only do you have to deal with the normal aches and pains (and exhaustion) that come with pregnancy but you get the added pleasure of also dealing with the annoying symptoms of the flu.  When you come down with a virus during your pregnancy you are rather limited on what you can take.  Those over the counter medications that you relied on in your pre-pregnancy days are of limits.  You are probably stuck fighting the flu the old fashioned way.

So, since over the counter medications are off limits what can you do to make yourself feel better?  Here are a few tips to help ease the discomfort of the nasty flu.

• Listen to your body when it comes to eating.  If you are hungry and can keep food down than eat.  If you can’t stomach anything than don’t worry too much about it.
• Get plenty of fluids.  Drink as much water as you can.  Being hydrated will help your body fight the virus and if you are throwing up or have diarrhea the water will help keep you from getting dehydrated.
• Get plenty of rest.  Enjoy the comfort of staying in bed.  Take a sick day from work and life when needed.  Rest will help you get over the flu a little faster.
• If the symptoms are really bothering you talk to your doctor to find out if there is anything safe for you to take during pregnancy.

The best tip, of course, is to avoid the flu if you can.  However, we all know that can be impossible.  If you start getting extra rest and drinking plenty of fluids at the first sign of flu symptoms you may be able to keep your bout with the flu a short one.  No one likes to be sick, especially a pregnant woman.   Remember to talk to your doctor if you are concerned at all about your symptoms.