Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can also be full of unexpected hurdles. One common issue that expecting mothers face is sinus problems. It's no secret that pregnancy hormones wreak havoc on a woman's body, including her sinuses. Luckily, there are safe and effective medications available to help alleviate the symptoms without harming the baby.
Understanding Sinus Problems During Pregnancy
Let's start by understanding what exactly happens in our sinuses during pregnancy (Fun fact: Did you know that most people have four pairs of sinuses?)? As estrogen levels increase during pregnancy, blood vessels in your nose expand and produce more mucus which can clog up your nasal passages causing congestion. This increased mucus production increases the likelihood of an infection in the already delicate areas.
Common Symptoms
Sinus problems may show varied signs such as-
- Nasal congestion
- Post-nasal drip
- Pressure around eyes or cheeks
- Headache
If left untreated, these issues could lead to more severe complications like blockage of Eustachian tubes leading to ear infections.
Causes
But why does this happen? This situation arises when Progesterone hormone decreases movement in your gut muscles giving rise to constipation leading further towards higher chances of getting affected from sinusitis which ultimately leads one vulnerable to attracting colds (Man, women just cannot catch a break!) Also relaxes smooth muscles increasing blood flow leading susceptible openings for mucous membranes thus enhancing sinus inflammation (The things we go through!)
Medications That Are Safe To Use During Pregnancy
Prescription drugs come with enough warning labels plastered all over them; "consult with your doctor before use", "side effects may include death". Let just say pregnancy doesn't take away those disclaimers but finding medication safe enough for both mother and child gives moms some added peace of mind.
Good Old Saline Nasal Spray
Saline nasal spray is a safe and affordable option that can be used throughout pregnancy. It works by flushing out the mucus build-up in the sinuses, clearing up the airwaves, allowing you to breathe without any hitch!
The Decongestant Power Of Pseudoephedrine
Pseudoephedrine is another useful medication but comes with certain side effects like drowsiness or nervousness. Best taken at nights for uninterrupted sleep. When ingested clears your nose faster than Usain Bolt doing his 100m sprint (just don't take too much!).
Antihistamines - A Kick Against Allergies
Having allergy as an existing condition could worsen sinusitis during pregnancy putting mothers-to-be on more alert mode than ever before! Safe antihistamine carrying little sedation- fexofenadine , loratidine are popularly prescribed (Go Moms!)
Remedial Measures To Follow Besides Medications
(Not from Dr Google)
Alongside these medications a healthy routine needs to be followed;-
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Take enough rest regularly
- Keep yourself well-hydrated and consume proper nutrition 4.Try some breathing exercises along with meditation techniques which will help ease stress 5.Avoid smoking altogether(The result will not just benefit you, but your baby too!) 6.And last but not least maintain regular appointments with your doctor (Don’t wait for trouble, meet them)
Through a combination of using medication correctly/safely (follow instructions on labels!), and following simple health advice above women can conquer their sinus issues while focusing all energy on that bun in the oven wink.