Milk supply suffering due to flu??

[StoriesInTheSoil]

DP and I have been terribly ill all day long. DS (15 mo) seems fine but he seems to be getting quickly frustrated when he tries to nurse. I think that my supply is suffering due to my illness. I'm worried that if he's not getting enough milk, he will a) be more susceptible to illness and b) be hungry as he barely eats solids. He DID eat a LOT more than usual at dinner (an entire banana, lots of bread dipped in soup, some noodles) so that is another reason that I'm thinking he must be hungry.

Anyway, my main concerns are that he is going to get sick if he's not getting my immunities and that my supply won't recover when I get well. Any thoughts on what to do?

[luv]

1 don't worry (easier said than done) a dip in supply while ill is normal.
2 REST - let your body work on getting better and making milk, nothing else
3 lots of liquids

as always nurse on demand

Get better soon

[tribalmax]

I agree with the PP -- but would ask if you are taking anything for congestion as these medicines can reduce supply. Could your babe be congested? This can be a factor in reduced nursing/supply. So maybe try some saline or breast milk in baby's nose? Also, a sore throat can cause things to be 'off' with nursing. Maybe try using ice or whatever analgesic methods you are comfortable with and see if this makes a difference?

Good luck!

Rachel

PS It is also possible that he is hitting a growth spurt and that the increased eating is due to his body and not a lack of milk on your part. Hang in there and offer nursing LOTS as this is the best thing you can give him!

[StoriesInTheSoil]

Thanks for the replies My flu is gone (thank you universe!!) and was very short (only about 48 hours) My supply is coming back now that I'm feeling better which is really great.

I used raw garlic and orange juice for flu treatment. I did also drink Throat Coat tea twice and took a few Ricola which I know have mentol but I only ate like 3 or 4 in the course of the 48 hours so I don't think that could have caused the supply drop. I guess it was just the course of things?

Anyway, thank you!