What It Means If You Have Flu-Like Symptoms In Early Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a beautiful and magical period indeed but along with it come truckloads of exhaustion and discomfort. Are you pregnant? If you are, you must have already experienced some of the most common issues during pregnancy like morning sickness and fatigue. Things can get pretty overwhelming if you add flu-like symptoms to the whole fiasco. Before you freak out, know that these symptoms may not always indicate the effect of the flu itself.

When To Get It Checked

If the symptoms are out loud and clear, don’t be too late to consult a doctor. A pregnant woman has a lot more restrictions on her when it comes to any kind of medication. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases in its early stage will save you from a lot of complications that may affect you and your baby.

If the flu is very common in your locality or if someone at home is suffering from the flu, it is good sense to seek medical help for preventative measures. You can get a flu vaccine to build your immunity against the flu virus. Discuss with your doctor about the various options available and go with the one that is safer.

Flu-like symptoms can also occur due to a disease called toxoplasmosis which is caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite (1). Consumption of undercooked and contaminated meat, coming in contact with infected cat feces, or transfer from mother during pregnancy are the ways in which one can get affected by it. Toxoplasmosis can harm you and your baby in case it isn’t treated on time.

Flu-like Symptoms That Can Occur During Pregnancy

Here are some of the flu-like symptoms that you will experience during your early days of pregnancy. If they are not causing too much trouble and if they just come and go, worry not.

Fatigue

It’s very normal to feel tired and weak during pregnancy as early as the first week of conceiving (2). In most cases, fatigue can occur as a result of the surge in the hormone progesterone. However, there are other factors that may be contributing to fatigue like low blood sugar levels, low blood pressure, and higher levels of blood production in the body.

Nausea

Nausea, commonly known as morning sickness is one of the most famous symptoms of pregnancy. Thanks to all the TV serials and movies- we know what it almost looks like. Nausea is often related to flu symptoms as well. If you’re nauseous, you probably should blame pregnancy instead of the flu. The reason for nausea during pregnancy isn’t certain but it has been equated with the hormonal changes that happen in the body (3).

Even though it is called “morning” sickness, nausea can occur at any time of the day. Some pregnant women develop a sort of aversion towards certain food items and odors and these things can easily make them nauseous. The symptoms become lighter for most women by the time they enter the 14th week of pregnancy (4). However, it is not a certainty and you can experience nausea throughout the pregnancy. All you can do to make things easier is to eat healthy and get enough sleep.

Headache

Many women experience mild headaches during pregnancy which is pretty normal (5). If you’re someone who has always had migraine headaches, pregnancy might help in easing it a bit (6). Try to take enough rest and stay relaxed. Try doing mild exercises, yoga, and meditation to keep your mind carefree. In case the headache worsens or refuses to get better, consult a doctor for further measures.

Change In Immune System

The human immune system changes considerably during the time of pregnancy (7). It has to find a balance between protecting the body against pathogens and not harming the baby inside the womb. This may change the strength of your immune system and you might experience it while you’re pregnant. Just to be sure that you aren’t sick, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor.

While these are common things that any pregnant woman can experience, do not hesitate to seek medical attention when you feel that things are going out of your hands.

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