How to manage flu-like symptoms during pregnancy at age 35?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 35 years old, weigh 184 pounds, and am 5 feet 2 inches tall. I'm 14 weeks and 2 days pregnant right now. I am considered a high-risk patient, as I have experienced two previous pregnancy losses: my first pregnancy was premature at five months, and the baby did not survive, and my second pregnancy was a stillbirth at two months.

Over the past two days, I have been experiencing flu-like symptoms, including alternating chills and fever, severe headache that makes it difficult to move my eyes from side to side, fatigue, back pain, and general body soreness.

My symptoms are worsening each day. I am currently taking folic acid, ferrous sulfate, and Aspirin.

I would appreciate your advice on how to manage these symptoms safely during pregnancy.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern, and I am going to be very clear with you.

You are 14 weeks pregnant with a history of pregnancy loss, and now you have worsening symptoms, including a feverish feeling, severe headache, pain when moving your eyes, body aches, and fatigue. This is not something mild.

This could be a viral infection, such as influenza or COVID-19 (coronavirus disease of 2019), but in your setting, we must also strongly consider Malaria, which is very important to rule out in pregnancy. These infections can become more serious during pregnancy and need prompt treatment.

The severity of your headache and the fact that your symptoms are getting worse are warning signs. You should not manage this at home.

You need to go to a hospital or clinic today for examination and testing. They should check your temperature, run a malaria test, and assess for viral infections. Blood tests may also be needed.

Continue taking your folic acid, iron, and Aspirin as prescribed. For pain or fever, you can take Paracetamol, which is safe in pregnancy. Do not take Ibuprofen or start antibiotics on your own.

Most infections can be treated safely in pregnancy if addressed early, but delaying care in your situation is risky given your history and current symptoms.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.