What is Pregnancy Rhinitis?
1 in 7 women suffer from pregnancy rhinitis, also known as rhinitis of pregnancy. This condition results in a stuffy nose and is caused by an increase in hormones. Although it is not dangerous, it can be very uncomfortable.
What is Pregnancy Rhinitis?
Pregnancy-related rhinitis, also known as “stuffy nose,” is a common condition that affects many pregnant women. It has no environmental causes and typically begins sometime during the first trimester of pregnancy, but can occur at any time during pregnancy. This condition can last for the pregnancy’s duration or a few weeks after you have given birth.
Pregnancy Rhinitis is a condition characterized by stuffiness and excess mucus production. During pregnancy, high estrogen and blood levels may reduce mucus membrane swelling and help relieve stuffiness. The excess mucus production is thought to be helpful in flushing out any irritants that may be present in the nose.
What are the signs or indicators?
The symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include a runny nose, congestion, and sneezing. While pregnancy rhinitis is usually harmless, it can be uncomfortable and annoying for expectant mothers. If you are experiencing pregnancy rhinitis, talk to your doctor about ways to relieve your symptoms.
A stuffy nose can be an annoying symptom of a cold or allergies. Allergies can also cause continual sneezing and coughing, and an itchy nose. Sometimes allergies can also cause a headache and a stuffed up feeling in the sinus cavities.
Pregnancy rhinitis is a very common problem that usually clears up within two weeks of giving birth. However, the degree of the condition can vary from person to person, so the best remedy depends on the severity of the case. Some of the more popular treatments for pregnancy rhinitis are:
Before taking any over-the-counter medication for pregnancy rhinitis, discuss it with your healthcare provider. In the past, there were fears that oral decongestants could be harmful during pregnancy. However, most recent research has refuted these claims. However, be guided by your OB/GYN and your own feelings on this.
Antihistamines: Some of these are safe for use during pregnancy, but for the safety of the fetus.
Aside from the obvious, you could also do quite a bit to regulate the issue yourself. This may include making some lifestyle changes, such as avoiding foods that trigger heartburn or reflux.
Stay hydrated by consuming plenty of fluids, but avoid caffeinated drinks. You may also find that sleeping with your head elevated helps to alleviate some of the symptoms and discomfort associated with pregnancy rhinitis. Taking a warm bath is also beneficial as steam works to clear the nasal passage. Moderate exercise can also be helpful in managing the condition, but given that you are pregnant stick to the basics such as walking.
As always, if you are pregnant and have any concerns or concerns, be sure to speak to your OB/GYN. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your unborn child.
Pregnancy can be a time of excitement and joy, but it can also bring on some less than pleasant symptoms like dizziness and constipation. You can read more about this condition and its treatment at What Is Pregnancy, Dizziness during Pregnancy and Constipation during pregnancy.
