
A stuffy nose during pregnancy is a very common phenomenon. How to most effectively remedy this situation?
A runny or stuffy nose during pregnancy is extremely common. Up to 30% of pregnant women get stuffy nose that is not caused by allergies or viral infections. This condition is specific during pregnancy and is called gestational rhinitis.
Causes of nasal congestion during pregnancy
Pregnant women will begin to have a stuffy nose in the second month of pregnancy and tend to get worse in the final months. This condition will subside immediately after birth and go away completely within 2 weeks after that.
High levels of estrogen during pregnancy can be one of the factors that cause swelling of the mucous membranes of the nose, creating even more mucus in the nose. In addition, the sudden increase in blood volume in the body also causes swelling of small blood vessels in the nasal wall, and also clog the surrounding tissues. In addition, other hormones can also cause blockages in the nasal airways.
Distinguish a stuffy nose during pregnancy from other causes
If you don't have any other symptoms, chances are you will only have rhinitis during pregnancy. If you have a stuffy nose accompanied by sneezing, coughing, sore throat, mild soreness or swelling or fever, you may have a cold or infection.
Sinusitis, on the other hand, is also an extremely common disease in pregnancy. If you have symptoms of sinusitis such as fever, headache, green or yellow mucus, upper jaw pain, or facial discomfort (especially when leaning forward) see your doctor. to better understand your own medical condition.
Also, if you have a stuffy or runny nose with mucus along with itchy eyes, nose, throat, or ear symptoms, then you're more likely to have an allergy. These allergies may lessen or get worse each day.
5 ways to clear nasal congestion during pregnancy
1. Drink honey ginger tea
Ginger is believed to have natural anti-inflammatory properties, so start your day with a cup of spicy ginger tea. Very simply, the ingredients just need thinly sliced fresh ginger and add a little honey to you have an effective decongestant drink. Ginger honey tea with the ability to heat the respiratory organs should immediately relieve stuffy nose difficult to breathe.
2. Nasal decongestant spray
You can easily buy decongestant sprays or inhalers at drugstores to help reduce inflammation and clear your airways. Not only that, these sprays or inhalers are easy to use and carry.
3. Stay away from allergens
Smoke, chalk, dust, smoke and cleaning solutions can worsen mucous membranes and symptoms. So stay away from them!
4. Soothe your nose with steam
The warm, humid air will help soothe the irritated nose. For relaxation, use a room humidifier or inhale steam from a bowl of hot water. When you take a shower, take a deep breath to enjoy the warmth and relaxation.
5. Keep your head high
When you sleep, keep your nose higher than your heart because gravity helps your nose drain out mucus. In addition, a stack of pillows around your neck will help keep your neck and spine in balance.
Hopefully the above article has provided a lot of information for you about the causes, symptoms and treatment of congestion for pregnant mothers.