Pregnancy rhinitis - The basic

Pregnancy rhinitis is defined by the presence of congestion and cold-like symptoms during pregnancy that are not caused by viruses, allergies, or other medical disorders, but rather by the pregnancy itself. Pregnancy rhinitis is highly prevalent, according to a research published in Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology. 39 percent of the 117 pregnant women polled in the research had symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis. Although pregnant rhinitis can occur at any moment throughout the pregnancy, it is more frequent in the second trimester. The majority of the 117 women in the research who reported pregnant rhinitis symptoms were in week 13 to 21 of their pregnancy.

What are main causes?

Experts aren't sure what causes pregnant rhinitis, but they refer to pregnancy hormones and how they alter the nasal passages as a possible culprit. Pregnancy rhinitis may be caused by "many chemicals and hormones released during pregnancy (PGH, VIP, oestrogen, progesterone)," according to Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology. These hormones and chemicals cause your nasal passages to create more mucus and have increased blood flow, both of which can cause nasal congestion, nasal discomfort, and even plugged ears.

Symptoms –

• sneezing
• congestion
• runny nose
• Postnasal drip
• Increased mucus
• Increased nasal congestion
• Pressure in the ears
• Decreased sense of smell due to congestion
• Disturbed sleep due to congestion or postnasal drip

How long do symptoms last?

Pregnancy rhinitis symptoms can be bothersome and painful for up to six weeks. Symptoms normally resolve two weeks following birth for the majority of individuals.

Approximately one-third of individuals who had chronic rhinitis before to pregnancy will have the same degree of symptoms throughout pregnancy, whereas the other third will have worsening rhinitis symptoms. The remaining one-third, on the other hand, will experience milder or no symptoms throughout pregnancy. Many women have told me that they felt their best, sinus-wise, when they were pregnant. However, there is no known cause for this.

Treatment -

• Using a humidifier in your home
• Keeping yourself well hydrated
• Steering clear of any nasal irritants, such as cigarette smoke or excessive pollution
• Exercising regularly (to decrease congestion symptoms and increase your quality of sleep)
• Elevating your head while sleeping or reclining—sometimes just an extra pillow or two will do the trick
• Considering nasal strips, saline spray/drop, or other nasal irrigators; always discuss these interventions with a healthcare provider being trying them.