A sore throat during pregnancy can be uncomfortable, leading many to seek relief. Understanding which options are safe is important. This article discusses common throat numbing sprays and alternative methods for managing a sore throat while pregnant.
Components of Throat Numbing Sprays
Throat numbing sprays provide temporary relief from sore throat pain. They typically contain active ingredients like benzocaine, phenol, and lidocaine. These local anesthetics work by numbing nerve endings in the throat, reducing discomfort and making swallowing easier. The ingredients are absorbed by throat tissue for rapid, localized relief.
Evaluating Safety During Pregnancy
When considering any medication during pregnancy, a healthcare provider’s consultation is always recommended. General principles suggest evaluating potential benefits against any known or theoretical risks to both the pregnant individual and the fetus. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) no longer uses a simple categorization system for drugs in pregnancy, instead requiring labels to provide detailed information on risks and benefits.
Benzocaine
Benzocaine is a topical local anesthetic that is generally absorbed in very small amounts when used as directed. While it has not been extensively studied in pregnancy, the limited systemic absorption suggests a low likelihood of significant amounts reaching the developing fetus. However, benzocaine is classified as a Pregnancy Category C drug, meaning animal studies have not provided enough information or shown some risk, and there are no controlled human studies. This indicates it should only be used if benefits outweigh potential risks, and there is a rare but serious risk of methemoglobinemia, a condition affecting oxygen levels, especially with overuse.
Phenol
Phenol is another active ingredient found in some throat sprays. Human data on phenol exposure during pregnancy has not shown meaningful associations with adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, some animal studies suggest potential links to reduced fetal weight and viability at high doses. Due to limited and sometimes conflicting data, it is prudent to consult a healthcare provider before using phenol-containing sprays during pregnancy.
Lidocaine
Lidocaine is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, with studies suggesting limited systemic absorption minimizes fetal exposure when used topically as directed. It is categorized as Pregnancy Category B by the FDA, indicating animal studies have not demonstrated fetal risk, and there are no adequate human studies. However, some lidocaine products may contain additional ingredients, such as salicylates, which are generally not recommended during pregnancy, so checking all ingredients is important.
Dyclonine
Dyclonine is another local anesthetic sometimes found in throat lozenges or sprays. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted for dyclonine, and it is unknown if it can cause fetal harm or is distributed in breast milk. It is categorized as Pregnancy Category C, meaning it should be used with caution and only if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. As with all medications, pregnant individuals should always consult their doctor or pharmacist before using any product containing dyclonine.
Alternative Approaches for Sore Throat Relief
Several safe and effective non-medicated approaches can provide relief for a sore throat during pregnancy.
Staying well-hydrated is important, as drinking plenty of fluids helps to keep the throat moist and ease irritation.
Warm, non-caffeinated beverages, such as herbal teas with honey and lemon, can be particularly soothing. Honey itself can lubricate the throat and reduce pain.
Gargling with warm salt water is a widely recommended home remedy. This can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Using a cool-mist humidifier in your living or sleeping area can add moisture to the air, which helps to soothe dry and irritated throat tissues.
Getting adequate rest allows the body to conserve energy and focus on healing.
Sucking on throat lozenges or ice chips can also provide temporary relief.
When to Consult Your Doctor
While many sore throats during pregnancy resolve with home remedies, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if a sore throat is severe, persistent, or lasts longer than three to five days without improvement. A high fever accompanying a sore throat, especially above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), could indicate a more serious infection.
Difficulty swallowing or breathing are concerning symptoms that suggest a need for prompt medical advice. Other signs that necessitate a doctor’s visit include swollen tonsils, white patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils, tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth, or swollen lymph nodes in the neck. If a rash develops alongside a sore throat, or if symptoms worsen rather than improve, seeking medical care is also advised to rule out more serious conditions like strep throat.