What should a pregnant woman do about a dry, sore throat?

In general, a pregnant woman's dry and sore throat may be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy leading to mucosal sensitivity, dry air or insufficient water intake, acute pharyngitis, acute tonsillitis, or gastroesophageal reflux during pregnancy. It is recommended to seek medical advice promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms safely under a doctor’s guidance. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Hormonal changes during pregnancy causing mucosal sensitivity: Elevated estrogen levels during pregnancy can cause congestion and thinning of the throat mucosa, making it more susceptible to irritation and resulting in dryness and pain. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water 2–3 times daily, holding the rinse for 30 seconds each time. Drink honey lemon water to soothe the throat, and avoid speaking loudly to reduce mucosal damage.

2. Dry air and inadequate hydration: Low indoor humidity or insufficient fluid intake can lead to moisture loss in the throat mucosa, causing dryness and discomfort. Use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity between 40% and 60%. Drink 1500–2000 mL of water daily, in small amounts and frequently, using warm water. Avoid stimulating beverages such as strong tea and coffee.

3. Acute pharyngitis: Viral or bacterial infections can cause inflammation of the throat mucosa, manifesting as dryness, sore throat, and redness or swelling of the pharynx. Rest adequately and minimize talking. Follow your doctor's instructions when using relatively safe medications for pregnant women, such as Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid, Honeysuckle Granules, or Compound Yizhihuanghua Spray.

4. Acute tonsillitis: Bacterial infection causes inflammation of the tonsils, resulting in significant sore throat accompanied by difficulty swallowing, and sometimes fever in severe cases. Follow your doctor's advice regarding antibiotics such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Penicillin V Potassium Tablets, or Cefradine Capsules to control the infection. Confirm no history of drug allergies before taking any medication. Consume liquid or soft foods to reduce swallowing discomfort.

5. Gastroesophageal reflux during pregnancy: Due to relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter during pregnancy, stomach acid may reflux and irritate the throat, causing dryness and pain—symptoms often worsen at night or after meals. Avoid lying down immediately after eating, and refrain from eating within two hours of bedtime. Under medical supervision, use medications such as Hydrotalcite Chewable Tablets, Sodium Bicarbonate Tablets, or Omeprazole Enteric-Coated Capsules to relieve reflux symptoms.

Maintain a light diet, and consume more throat-soothing fruits such as pears and apples; avoid spicy or excessively hot foods. Ensure adequate sleep and avoid staying up late, which can weaken immunity. By maintaining regular作息 (daily routines) and proper care, you can alleviate throat dryness and pain and support overall health during pregnancy.