Various factors can cause sore throat during pregnancy, from environmental irritants to viruses to pregnancy hormones. Here are some effective home remedies.

A sore throat is an inflammation of the throat that causes pain, dry or scratchy feeling which often worsens when you swallow. Mostly it is caused by viral infections (cold and flu) and sometimes bacterial infections. However, sore throat can also result from acid reflux, allergies (dust and pollen), muscle strain in the throat, exposure to chemicals or pollutants, and sinusitis. Most sore throats go away on their own within 3-5 days. But strep throat which is caused by bacteria needs to be treated with antibiotics, such as penicillin. If you're pregnant and experiencing a sore throat, treatment of this common ailment can be more complex because there are a lot of things you can't take during this time. We have some best home remedies for treating a sore throat during pregnancy.

But first let's understand the most common causes of sore throat during pregnancy. When you're pregnant, your immune system lowers its strength slightly, so your body won't reject your developing baby. This makes your body more susceptible to infections, including cold and flu that can cause a sore throat. Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels during pregnancy can also cause a sore throat along with other symptoms, such as nausea and headache. A heartburn or acid reflux is also a common pregnancy symptom, and it can also give you a sore throat. Fortunately, simple home treatments ease most sore throats.

A sore throat during pregnancy is generally not a cause of concern. However, if it is accompanied by fever, chills, and a severe sense of malaise, it could be the flu and you should go see your doctor immediately. You may need to see a doctor if you have strep throat, a severe form of sore throat caused by bacteria.

Gargle with Warm Salt Water

This is one of the safest home remedies for sore throat during pregnancy. Gargling with warm salt water can clear your throat of irritants and loosen the mucus, which relieves your sore throat. In addition, salt helps draw out excess moisture from swollen tissues, reducing inflammation. To ease sore throat symptoms, gargle with warm salt water three times a day. Salt has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that prevent bacteria from growing.

Drink Warm Turmeric Milk

Turmeric's active compound, curcumin, reduces inflammation and has analgesic properties that can ease throat pain. Drink warm turmeric milk twice daily to alleviate the symptoms.

Treat with Apple Cider Vinegar Solution

One tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar mixed in a glass of water should be consumed twice daily. You can also add a little honey to it. Another option is to gargle with 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in warm water twice a day.

Because apple cider vinegar is alkaline when consumed, most viruses cannot thrive in alkaline environments, making it an effective remedy for sore throats.

Have Ginger Tea After a Meal

If acid reflux is the cause of your sore throat, ginger is an effective remedy. Ginger contains active components such as volatile oils and phenolic compounds that neutralize stomach acids and relieve acidity during pregnancy. Furthermore, ginger has antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties and is a useful remedy for nausea and vomiting that often accompany acidity. Drink ginger tea warm after eating a meal, but keep it to no more than two cups per day.