How to treat West Nile virus naturally during pregnancy
West Nile virus is a
virus most commonly spread by mosquitoes. Pregnant women may fear that if they
become infected with West Nile virus, it will be passed on to their baby, but
the chances of this happening are slim.
Only a few cases of
transmission of West Nile virus from mother to child in the womb have been
reported.
However, women who
have been diagnosed with West Nile virus and are currently breastfeeding should
consult with their doctor to determine the risks to the newborn.
The good news is that
most people infected with West Nile virus (about 70-80%) do not have any
symptoms associated with the virus.
Natural treatment for West Nile virus during pregnancy
Unfortunately, there
is little you can do to naturally treat West Nile virus once you have been
infected. The best way to take care of West Nile virus is to avoid getting it.
How to prevent West Nile virus during pregnancy
How can you prevent
West Nile virus? Is there anything you can do naturally to repel mosquitoes?
Below are some
options to help you prevent mosquito contact, thereby reducing your risk of
West Nile virus infection:
- Wear long sleeves. While not ideal during the summer months, clothing can act as a barrier to prevent mosquitoes from gaining access to your skin and transmitting West Nile virus.
- Use insect repellant.
- Stay home when there are no mosquitoes. Mosquitoes love stagnant or stagnant water and usually come out when the sun goes down. The best advice is to avoid standing water or go outside after dark if you find yourself in an area with a high mosquito population.
If you are infected with West Nile virus
Symptoms and
complications in those who contract West Nile virus can be severe and should be
taken care of as soon as possible.
For those who have
only mild reactions, acetaminophen can be taken to relieve pain associated with
West Nile virus.
In people who do not
have severe cases of West Nile virus, the virus may go away on its own after a
while, but pregnant women should be careful and see a doctor if they think they
may have symptoms.
Pregnant women who
think they have developed severe signs of West Nile virus, such as fever,
vomiting, neck stiffness, or seizures, should seek immediate medical attention.
Treating West Nile virus when it doesn't work naturally
If you think you have
severe symptoms of West Nile virus, your doctor will perform a physical exam to
make a diagnosis.
Lab tests may be used
to look for West Nile virus antibodies in your blood, or an MRI scan may be
done to determine if you have brain swelling or inflammation.
Unfortunately, there
are no antiviral drugs available to treat or treat West Nile virus. The body
must defeat it on its own.
If you have one of
the more severe cases of West Nile virus, your doctor will likely suggest
so-called "supportive interventions" to help you manage your
symptoms.
There is no way to prevent brain swelling due to West Nile virus, but your doctor may prescribe intravenous fluids to keep you hydrated and medications to control symptoms associated with pain.