Why does the nose swell during pregnancy? Treatment of runny nose in pregnant women

During pregnancy, the nasal mucosa often swells. This process is accompanied not only by difficulty breathing, but also by the release of mucus from the sinuses. Many expectant mothers ask questions: why is this happening, and how to alleviate their condition, because everyone knows that the use of vasoconstrictor drugs during pregnancy is undesirable.

Why does the nasal mucosa swell during pregnancy?

To choose an effective method that will alleviate a woman’s condition, the first step is to find out the cause of swelling of the nasal mucosa during pregnancy. After all, mucus production, swelling and nasal congestion can be caused by a viral infection or respiratory disease, an acute allergic reaction and even hormonal changes in the body.

A pregnant woman's immune system is weakened, so she is more at risk than everyone else of getting the flu or a cold, especially in the autumn-winter period. In most cases, such diseases are accompanied by rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal mucosa) or sinusitis (inflammation of the paranasal sinus mucosa). Depending on the severity of the illness, inflammation of the mucous membrane during pregnancy may be accompanied by abundant production of secretions, both transparent and purulent (yellow or green).

If the expectant mother suffers from dry nasal congestion, then most likely an allergy is to blame. During pregnancy, a woman's immune system undergoes significant changes, and therefore a pregnant woman may have an atypical reaction to her usual environment, even if she has never had one before. The allergy causes watery eyes, repeated sneezing, dry cough, itching of the facial skin and swelling of the mucous membranes during pregnancy.

In addition, in pregnant women, nasal congestion may occur due to exposure of the body to a large number of sex hormones, in particular estrogen and progesterone. High levels of hormones lead to swelling of the mucous membrane and, as a result, difficulty in nasal breathing. It is worth noting that this condition is popularly called rhinitis during pregnancy, and it is not accompanied by the production of mucus from the nose. Rhinitis in pregnant women occurs due to the fact that an excess amount of fluid accumulates in the intercellular space of the nasal mucosa, which is why the mucous membrane swells during pregnancy. Typically, this condition does not last the entire 9 months; as a rule, rhinitis occurs in the second half of pregnancy or immediately before childbirth. But, despite the fact that swelling of the mucous membrane during pregnancy is a temporary phenomenon, it causes discomfort to the expectant mother. After all, the absence of nasal breathing leads to loss of appetite, sleep disturbance, and, naturally, a deterioration in mood. The baby in the mother's belly is also affected by nasal congestion in a pregnant woman, as oxygen saturation in the blood deteriorates.

Treatment of swelling of the nasal mucosa during pregnancy

In cases where swelling of the mucous membrane during pregnancy does not go away within 2-3 days, the woman should consult a therapist or otolaryngologist (ENT) for advice so that he can determine the cause of difficulty breathing.

If swelling of the nasal mucosa is a symptom of a cold or viral disease, then treatment will consist of a set of measures prescribed by the doctor depending on the severity of the health condition. To reduce inflammation and swelling of the mucous membrane during pregnancy, a woman is prescribed irrigation of the nasal passages with a saline solution, for example, “Aquamaris”, “Solin”.

If a doctor diagnoses that nasal congestion and difficulty breathing are caused by an allergic reaction, then to effectively treat this condition it is necessary to identify the source of irritation and remove it from the daily environment. To alleviate a woman’s condition and reduce swelling of the mucous membrane during pregnancy, rinsing the nasal passages and irrigating them with saline solution, as well as local massage, are prescribed. Taking antihistamines by an expectant mother is highly undesirable, as it can have a negative impact on the development of the child. Therefore, allergy medications are prescribed to pregnant women only as a last resort.

Is it necessary to treat

In a situation where swelling of the mucous membrane during pregnancy is caused by hormonal changes in the body, the woman does not need any treatment. This unpleasant condition will go away on its own, and nasal breathing will be restored about a week after delivery. But, despite this, many expectant mothers are trying to figure out how to alleviate their condition, what can be done to reduce swelling of the mucous membrane. The best option is to instill a saline solution into the nasal passages or irrigate the mucous membrane with it. This procedure can be performed several times a day.

Under no circumstances should you use nasal sprays and drops containing vasoconstrictor components to facilitate breathing. Because they will not only reduce swelling of the mucous membrane during pregnancy, but will also lead to spasm of the blood vessels of the placenta, which will reduce the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the baby. It is allowed to take vasoconstrictor drugs only with the permission of a doctor and in a minimal dosage, mainly at night.

How to reduce swelling

Even if swelling of the nasal mucosa during pregnancy is caused by hormonal changes in the body, and does not require any specific treatment, the woman herself can alleviate her condition. To do this, you need to ventilate the room several times a day and do wet cleaning, wipe dust from surfaces daily, try to avoid contact with household chemicals, cigarette smoke, and cosmetics with a strong smell.

Swelling in the nose is definitely an unpleasant phenomenon for absolutely any person. If a pregnant woman suffers from swelling of the mucous membrane, then the unpleasantness of the pathology increases significantly against the background of all sorts of biological changes in her body.

In order to neutralize the swelling itself and the problems that arise from it (restless sleep, fatigue, poor concentration), you will have to resort to a special kind of treatment procedures, permissible exclusively for expectant mothers. We will talk in more detail about how to remove during pregnancy, doing everything correctly and safely, in the article below.

Swelling of the nasal mucosa during pregnancy is a completely normal reaction of the body, manifested in response to the action of pathogenic microflora in the cavity. A similar phenomenon periodically occurs in completely healthy people and in pregnant women.

According to statistics, about 30% of expectant mothers during pregnancy encountered problems with enlarged nasal cavities, which caused them considerable discomfort.

Most often, swelling of the nasal passages occurs due to:

• rhinitis of various etiologies
• typical ENT ailments (, etc.)
• chronic pathologies of the body
• anatomical features of the structure of the skull (as a rule, problems with swelling of the mucous membrane are observed before pregnancy)
• nasal injuries

There are different ways to identify the exact cause of swelling of the nasal passages, which is extremely important for organizing therapy. The most reliable of them is, naturally, contacting a doctor. However, even in normal home conditions, you can try to identify the factors that precede the development of edema.

So, in the initial stages of rhinitis, in addition to problems with the nasopharynx, nothing else is observed, but with the development of ENT diseases, swelling and nasal congestion are often added to, increased temperature, chills and similar symptoms.

In any case, in terms of diagnosing the cause of nasal swelling during pregnancy, it is better not to take risks and carry out the necessary procedures in a clinic.

It is important for pregnant women to remember that they are responsible not only for their health, but also for the life of the child, the normality of which can be disrupted by even minor problems with the mother’s nasal mucosa.

Signs and complications of pathology

The phenomenon of swelling of the nasal passages, perhaps, does not require any special description. Often the swelling is pronounced and manifests itself in the form of poor patency of the nasal passages, as well as the presence of an excess of mucous secretions in them.

In addition, typical signs of problems of this kind include:

• headache
• dizziness
• smell disturbances
• increased sensitivity to bright light
• frequent "Czech"
• pronounced mouth breathing
• discomfort in the sinuses
• less often – fever, cough, severe weakness, increased fatigue and similar phenomena

As a rule, nasal swelling is provoked by ordinary rhinitis, either viral or allergic. If timely and appropriate therapeutic measures are taken, any pregnant woman can avoid any complications without any special problems.

However, even slightly starting the course of the pathology, you can provoke its complication.

Surprisingly, ordinary and essentially harmless swelling of the nasal passages can cause in a pregnant woman:

1. ENT pathologies of moderate and severe forms (from to)
2. severe decrease in immunity level
3. development of viral or bacterial infection of the whole body
4. pregnancy disorder

Naturally, each of the presented complications has considerable danger, so allowing them to develop is simply unacceptable. Especially if you take into account the risks of premature birth or, even worse, miscarriage.

Drug therapy

Treatment of swelling and nasal congestion during pregnancy takes place in three main stages:

• The first step is to identify the cause or causes of the disease.
• The second stage ensures relief of unpleasant symptoms.
• On the third stage, relief from the causes of swelling and congestion of the nasal passages is realized.

Due to the specificity of the pregnancy process, pathology therapy requires the use of specialized medications. Considering this aspect of the treatment of pregnant women, it is extremely important for them to know that it is necessary to treat all manifested ailments only with the attending physician.

As a rule, the specialist prescribes:

1. Medicines necessary to eliminate the cause of swelling and nasal congestion (antivirals, antibiotics, antihistamines, etc.).
2. Medicines used to relieve unpleasant symptoms of pathology (nasal drops, rinsing solutions, painkillers, etc.).
3. Immunostimulants and vitamin complexes that help speed up the treatment process.

In addition to the drug course of therapy, the use of physiotherapeutic procedures is possible - from light inhalations to specialized measures in the hospital. Only the attending physician can judge the need to prescribe such, so there should not be any speculation, much less decisions made regarding the organization of treatment on the part of the pregnant woman.

Nasal rinsing

One of the main means aimed at relieving swelling and nasal congestion are rinsing solutions. Such liquids not only help reduce the degree of swelling and eliminate discomfort in the nasal cavities, but also contribute to an enhanced fight against the main cause of the pathology.

For pregnant women, the safest and most effective nasal rinsing solutions are considered to be:

• – a liquid used as a special composition for rinsing the nasal sinuses and reducing the degree of swelling of the mucous membrane. The course of its use should not exceed 2-3 weeks, except in cases where the drug has been prescribed for a long time by the doctor. The solution is used 4 times a day, 1-3 injections into each nostril. The only contraindication to the use of Aquamaris is the presence of an allergy in a pregnant woman to its components.
• A solution of sea salt, prepared using a glass of water and 1-2 teaspoons of this raw material. The principles of using such a product are completely similar to those described earlier, with the exception that the liquid must not just be injected into the nasal sinuses and passed through them with further flow. There is also only one contraindication to the use of sea salt solution: the pregnant woman is allergic to either salt or water (which is borderline fantastic).
• A solution is a product prepared from the same glass of water and one tablet of this drug. It is necessary to use Furacilin solution in complete analogy with sea salt solution. Many doctors recommend its use only in cases of significant development of ENT pathologies, so there is no need to rush into purchasing Furacilin. It is advisable to repeat washing with this product 2 times a day for 1-2 weeks. A contraindication to the use of the solution is an allergy to Furacilin or water.

We strongly recommend that all pregnant women, before resorting to rinsing their nose with one or another solution, consult their doctor. Do not forget that the wrong selection of fluid can not only reduce the effect of therapy to zero, but also actually harm the fetus.

Traditional methods of dealing with the problem

As a supplement to the main drug course of treatment for swelling and nasal congestion, it is quite acceptable for a pregnant woman to resort to the use of methods from traditional medicine.

Naturally, before using any homemade medicines, consultation with a doctor is an urgent matter, so you should not ignore such conversations.

If the doctor has given permission to resort to alternative medicine, the most rational solution would be to use:

• Acupressure of the nasal sinuses, warming up the legs and breathing exercises. Probably, the principles of their implementation do not require explanation. The main thing when using such therapy methods is to work without fanaticism, avoiding overheating of the feet or strong pressure on the facial skin, which can cause skin problems or even cracks in the bones.
• A healing “elixir” that is prepared by mixing grated horseradish with apple and sugar. Taking 2 teaspoons of this product three times a day will not only have a positive effect on the nasal mucosa, but will also significantly increase immunity. Naturally, if a pregnant woman is allergic to horseradish, apple or sugar, it is unacceptable to use such an “elixir” in equal proportions.
• A decoction of and can act as an excellent solution for rinsing the sinuses. This remedy will not only significantly reduce swelling and nasal congestion, but will also increase the local immunity of the mucous membrane. To prepare it, you will need to take one tablespoon of dried chamomile and calendula, then pour 1.5 cups of boiling water over them and leave to brew until completely cool. Before use, the resulting solution must be filtered and used for two washes, one of which is carried out in the morning and the other in the evening. If you have an allergic reaction to the presented plants, you should avoid taking their decoction.

In general, traditional methods of dealing with nasal swelling are good ways to get rid of an unpleasant problem, but they are guaranteed not to be able to become the basis of treatment, so in this regard they are not permissible.

What can't you do?

Self-prescribing medications for swelling of the nasal mucosa is prohibited!

In the process of getting rid of swelling, nasal congestion and the reasons that caused it, a pregnant woman should not:

1. Use for therapy drugs that are contraindicated for use in pregnant women or have not been studied in pregnant women.
2. Resort to nasal rinses or inhalations made with strong drugs (alcohol tinctures, medications, etc.).

   As you can see, getting rid of edema during pregnancy is not so difficult. The main thing in this matter is a competent approach to the implementation of therapy and compliance with its basic rules. Despite this, it is better to prevent diseases of this kind, which is possible through the implementation of certain preventive measures.

   Basic prevention of swelling includes:

   • Humidifying the air in a house where a pregnant woman lives.
   • Constant ventilation and cleaning of them.
   • Avoiding hypothermia on the part of the pregnant woman and contact with any allergens.
   • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
   • Proper nutrition.
   • Systematic examinations by a doctor throughout the entire period of pregnancy.

   Surprisingly, such simple manipulations can significantly reduce the risk of developing any ENT ailments in any pregnant woman. Therefore, it is undesirable to ignore their implementation by the latter.

   I guess that's all on this note for today's issue. We hope that the material presented was useful to you and provided answers to your questions. Good health to you!

Is there a way to avoid medications when treatment of runny nose in pregnant women How to free your breath and help your stuffy nose? And how can a pregnant woman protect herself from this unpleasant disease?

Runny nose (rhinitis)- one of the most common diseases that can cause a lot of discomfort to the expectant mother. This is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, sometimes it is accompanied by a feeling of nasal congestion (due to severe swelling of the mucous membrane), pain, and copious discharge from the nostrils.

Causes of a runny nose

Viral infection- the most common reason runny nose in pregnant women. Viral rhinitis occurs especially often in the autumn-winter period, when acute respiratory diseases peak. The disease is manifested by swelling of the nasal mucosa, liquid mucous transparent discharge. Often viral rhinitis is one of the symptoms of acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI), accompanied by fever, headaches, and weakness.

bacterial infection, As a rule, it develops against the background of a long-term, sluggish viral infection, due to which local immunity in the nasal cavity is reduced, the balance of natural microflora is disrupted, and the active reproduction of opportunistic microorganisms such as streptococci and staphylococci begins. In this case, nasal discharge becomes thicker and takes on a green or greenish-yellow hue.

Runny nose in pregnant women allergic origin worries many expectant mothers in the spring and summer. When plants begin to bloom, there are many microscopic pollen particles in the air, which, settling on the nasal mucosa, cause irritation and trigger allergic processes. As a result of this, swelling of the nasal mucosa increases, transparent, liquid mucous discharge appears; the disease may also be accompanied by swelling of the mucous membrane of the eyes and lacrimation.

Manifestations of rhinitis bring a lot of discomfort to a pregnant woman.

Swelling of the mucous membrane prevents normal free nasal breathing, which becomes a frequent cause of sleep disturbances, irritability and fatigue, and constant nasal discharge causes a lot of inconvenience to the expectant mother.

Fortunately, today pharmacies have a sufficient range of remedies for the common cold that are also suitable for pregnant women.

How to treat a runny nose in pregnant women

Nasal cleansers. Effective cleansing of the nasal cavity from secretions promotes faster recovery and subsidence of swelling, and prevents the addition of a bacterial infection.

Any saline solution is ideal for this purpose. For example, ordinary saline solution, i.e. 0.9?% solution of ordinary salt. Effectively washing away secretions, it has a gentle and beneficial effect on the nasal mucosa, and to some extent relieves swelling of the mucous membrane.

Spray or drops AQUAMARIS is purified sea water from the Adriatic Sea. It has no contraindications for use, except for individual intolerance to the components of the drug. This is an excellent product that can be used to cleanse the nose without restrictions on the frequency and duration of procedures.

Also great for rinsing AQUALOR. This is a spray containing natural sea water enriched with mineral salts. It is safe for pregnant women, children and even newborns.

Nasal rinsing complex DOLPHIN is a set consisting of a bottle with a nozzle for rinsing the nose and a set of soluble powders containing not only salt, but also minerals and extracts of medicinal herbs. Dissolve the powder from one sachet in warm water in a bottle, close tightly with a rinse attachment, and shake lightly to completely dissolve the powder.

Place the nozzle on one nostril, tilt your head slightly to the side opposite the nostril being washed, and hold your breath. Lightly press the walls of the bottle - the solution will enter the nasal cavity, effectively washing all areas of the mucous membrane. Repeat the procedure on the opposite side.

Thanks to the mild solution and the method of washing, the nasal mucosa is effectively cleansed, viral and bacterial particles and allergens are washed out of the nasal cavity, and swelling subsides.

Contraindications to the use of DOLPHIN are individual intolerance to the solution, as well as acute and chronic otitis media. You can use DOLPHIN without restrictions on the frequency and duration of use.

Means for softening the nasal mucosa and increasing local immunity. Drops PINOSOL contain rapeseed oil, pine oil, eucalyptus and peppermint. Thanks to this combination, PINOSOL has a softening effect on the nasal mucosa, helps relieve swelling, and increases local immunity. Contraindications to the use of PINOSOL is individual intolerance to the components of the drug of allergic origin.

Drops GRIPPFERON contain a substance that stimulates local immunity and increases the body's resistance to infection. Gripferon can be used at any stage of pregnancy; it is contraindicated in case of individual intolerance and severe allergic reactions.

Remedies for nasal congestion. In order to relieve the unpleasant symptom of nasal congestion, you can use vasoconstrictors. By acting on the mucous membrane, these drugs help reduce swelling and restore free nasal breathing. However, before using medications from this group, you should clear the nasal cavity of secretions so that the vasoconstrictor has a targeted effect on the cleansed mucous membrane.

Pregnant women are allowed to use the vasoconstrictor SANORIN at any time. This medicine is available in the form of drops or spray. Contraindications for use are rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure, glaucoma, and intolerance to the components of the drug. It is important to remember that long-term use (more than 3-4 days) of a vasoconstrictor can lead to atrophy (depletion) of the nasal mucosa and, as a result, temporary loss of smell and repeated swelling of the mucous membrane.

Remedies for allergies runny nose in pregnant women. The mechanisms of development of allergic and infectious rhinitis are different. When an allergen is exposed to the nasal mucosa, allergic reactions begin to occur in it, due to which swelling develops in the nose and abundant mucous-liquid transparent discharge appears. Medicines with an antiallergic effect will help eliminate these symptoms. Before using antiallergic nasal medications, you should consult your doctor.

FLIXONASE is a spray whose main active ingredient is glucocorticosteroid hormone, which is a highly effective antiallergic agent. FLIXONASE has only a local effect on the nasal mucosa and does not affect the body as a whole. Contraindicated in case of individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

VIBROCIL– nasal drops that combine antiallergic and vasoconstrictor effects. VIBROCIL is also available in the form of a gel, in which case the drug is placed as deep as possible into the nasal cavity. Carrying out this procedure before bed will ensure that your nose does not get stuffy all night. VIBROCIL is contraindicated in case of glaucoma, tachycardia, increased blood pressure, intolerance to the components of the drug. The medicine can be used at any stage of pregnancy, with caution and under the supervision of a doctor.

Before using any medicinal product (antiallergic, vasoconstrictor, immunomodulatory), it is imperative to clear the nasal cavity of secretions, for example, using products such as AQUAMARIS or DOLPHIN, and only after that can other drugs be used. In this case, the effect of the drugs will be directed directly to the nasal mucosa. Without prior nasal rinsing treatment of runny nose in pregnant women ineffective, since the medicine will leave the nasal cavity along with the secretions.

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