Allergies are prevalent, but in pregnancy, they can often be felt more intensely. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly increased estrogen and progesterone levels, can cause swelling of the nasal passages and increase the body's reaction to allergens. Consequently, many women experience sneezing, nasal stuffiness, watery eyes, or even skin hives in specific seasons. Treating these symptoms safely becomes a central issue, as not all medications are effective or safe during pregnancy.
In this article, we will discuss why allergies during pregnancy become worse, what types of allergies exist, what safe allergy treatments should be considered during pregnancy, and practical prevention tips to keep you comfortable during every season.
Pregnancy causes drastic hormonal and immune system shifts that may impact how your body responds to allergens.
● Hormonal changes: Elevated levels of estrogen can lead to swelling of the nasal tissues; hence, congestion or an inability to breathe through the nose with no allergy can occur.
● Changes in the immune system: The Immune system readjusts to protect the baby, so pregnant women are at higher risk of allergic reactions.
● Emergence of new allergic sensitivities: Some women begin to get allergic reactions for the first time while pregnant, and this normally happens due to hormone and immune system changes.
These physiological changes increase discomfort from seasonal allergies during pregnancy, particularly in spring and fall when there is much pollen.
Allergic reactions may take different forms during pregnancy depending on the sensitivity of your system and exposure to allergens. The ones listed below are common:
Induced by any amount of pollen, dust, or mould, seasonal allergy triggers sneezing, congestion, watery eyes, and a sore throat. They are more prevalent during the heavy-pollen seasons.
Skin allergy during pregnancy is common due to increased skin sensitivity. Dryness, itching, or rash caused by hormone changes or exposure to soaps, detergents, or certain fabrics may exacerbate the irritation.
Certain foods, such as nuts, shellfish, or milk, can trigger hives, swelling, or stomach discomfort. Pregnant women who are already known to have food allergies must be very careful and if the symptoms deteriorate, they should immediately speak to their doctor.
Perfume, pet dander, dust mites, and cleaning products can induce sneezing or respiratory discomfort. These allergens are usually present indoors and can be controlled with preventive measures.
Symptoms of allergy can be variable in severity, but recurring signs include:
● Sneezing, runny nose or stuffiness
● Itchy eyes, throat, or skin
● Congested nasal passages
● Red, watery eyes
● Rash, hives, or itching on the skin
● Fatigue and mild shortness of breath
Note: In case of extreme breathing issues, chest constricting, or wheezing, consult a doctor right away, as they could be indicators of a severe allergic reaction.
As far as allergy treatments in pregnancy are concerned, the aim is to eliminate symptoms without posing any risk to the baby. Always get a prescription from your gynaecologist before taking any medication or remedy.
● Ask your physician first: Not every over-the-counter allergy medication is safe to take during pregnancy.
● Antihistamines: Certain second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine or cetirizine, can be recommended by physicians in specific trimesters.
● Nasal sprays: Saline sprays are safe for regular use to open nasal passages. Low-dose corticosteroid sprays (such as budesonide) can also be used in extreme situations under the monitoring of doctors.
● Don't self-medicate: Never take decongestants like pseudoephedrine or expired prescriptions without first consulting a doctor.
● Steam inhalation: Opens nasal passages and helps with breathing.
● Saline nasal rinse: Naturally washes allergens, pollen, and mucus away.
● Humidifier: Keeps air indoors moist and helps fight dryness and irritation.
● Hydration: Staying hydrated thins mucus and relieves sinus pressure.
● Cool compress: Provides relief to itchy or puffy eyes.
● Coconut oil or aloe vera gel: Can be used to soothe mild rashes or irritation (with your doctor's permission).
These remedies alone can manage mild seasonal allergies in pregnancy without the use of medication.
In case of skin allergy during pregnancy, mild care can control flare-ups and discomfort.
● Apply fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturisers to maintain supple skin.
● Discard harsh soaps, detergents, and perfumed products.
● Dress in soft, breathable cotton fabrics.
● Avoid scratching red areas.
If skin allergies, such as rashes worsen, seek help from a dermatologist for topical treatments suitable for pregnancy.
Prevention is also important in minimising exposure to allergens, particularly for seasonal allergies during pregnancy. Natural methods are there to alleviate discomfort:
● Do not go outside when pollen concentration is high, especially in the early morning and evening.
● Keep windows closed and use an air filter indoors.
● Take a shower and change clothes after going indoors to wash away pollen.
● Wash beddings once a week with hot water to get rid of dust mites.
● Avoid smoking and exposure to smoke.
● Have a healthy diet with abundant antioxidants and vitamins to uplift immunity.
● Keep pets off the bed if you are allergic to animal dander.
Pregnant women can use these techniques to manage their symptoms in effective ways.
Pregnancy care in allergy is offered safely at Cloudnine, with an expert panel of obstetricians, allergists, and dermatologists providing evidence-based treatment of allergies during pregnancy, taking into consideration the patient's comfort and safety. It offers complete care through the latest diagnostics, safety in treatment options, and natural treatment, which help women breathe freely and feel better with every changing season.
There is nothing more annoying than having any sort of allergy, but with the right care, choice, and medicine available to those in need, anybody can deal with them. Use home remedies gently to relieve symptoms or follow your doctor's advice. Enjoy each season with comfort by either getting to know your triggers, eating clean, or getting proper medical aid whenever required.
Start by trying out safe, non-medicated methods: saline rinses, humidifiers, and steam inhalation.
Mild allergies generally do not affect the baby. But severe allergic reactions that compromise breathing should be addressed immediately to ensure adequate oxygen supply to the mother and baby.
Stay at home on high-pollen days, flush your nose with a saline rinse, and keep your environment clean. If sneezing continues, your physician might prescribe a safe antihistamine.
Itching at night can be due to dry skin or an allergic reaction of the skin during pregnancy. Moisturise daily, take cool showers, and dress in soft, natural fabrics. If the itching gets more intense, see your doctor to eliminate other causes.
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