Pregnancy rhinitis refers to an inflammation of the tissues lining the nasal passages in pregnant individuals. What are the most important facts to know about pregnancy rhinitis? The good news is that symptoms typically disappear within two weeks after delivery. Often, symptoms last for six weeks or more. Pregnancy rhinitis may come and go during pregnancy.
POST NASAL DRIP WITHOUT RUNNY NOSE PROFESSIONAL
Therapeutic alternatives may be considered under the direction of a medical professional on a case-by-case basis if necessary. Nasal decongestants, like xylometazoline, may be considered for use after the first trimester, but there is limited evidence for their use during pregnancy. Due to limited data regarding effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding, steroidal nasal sprays, such as inhaled fluticasone, are usually reserved for symptoms unresponsive to antihistamines, decongestants, and intranasal sodium cromoglycate. Medicated nasal sprays (e.g., intranasal sodium cromoglycate) may help relieve nasal congestion and are considered safe and well-tolerated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, it is recommended pregnant individuals do not take oral decongestants during the first trimester due to a small risk of birth defects. Oral decongestants are considered safe to use during pregnancy.
If non-medicated options or antihistamines are inadequate for symptom relief, oral decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, may be considered.
To prevent potential adverse effects to the fetus’ central nervous system, the use of first-generation antihistamines is not recommended near the end of pregnancy. Safe medication options during pregnancy and breastfeeding may include the use of first-generation antihistamines, like chlorpheniramine, or second-generation antihistamines, like cetirizine, to help dry up mucus. Elevating the head of the bed and using dilating nasal strips while sleeping may also be considered.ĭepending on the severity of an individual’s symptoms, certain medications may be recommended under the direction of a medical professional. Other treatments may include using medication-free, salt water nasal sprays (i.e., saline sprays) or a sterilized neti pot with sterile saline solution to rinse allergens, debris, and mucus out of the nasal passages, which may help relieve nasal congestion and facilitate breathing. Treatment options may include avoiding certain allergens or irritants - possibly pollen, animal dander, dust mites, smoke, or strong odors - which may contribute to the condition or make symptoms worse.
Treatment of pregnancy rhinitis aims to relieve symptoms as much as possible and improve quality of life. If individuals experience any complications, it is recommended that they seek professional medical assessment. Other symptoms during pregnancy may include excess mucus dripping down the back of the throat (i.e., post-nasal drip), runny nose, increased ear pressure, sneezing, reduced sense of smell, and disturbed sleep.Ĭomplications of pregnancy rhinitis may include ear infections, sinus infections, or, for individuals with asthma, the worsening of asthma symptoms. Signs and symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis characteristically include a stuffy nose, due to increased mucus and pressure in the nasal passages. What are the signs and symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis?
POST NASAL DRIP WITHOUT RUNNY NOSE TRIAL
Join millions of students and clinicians who learn by Osmosis! Start Your Free Trial When does pregnancy rhinitis start?Īlthough pregnancy rhinitis may start at any time during pregnancy, it most commonly affects pregnant individuals in the first trimester, or first three months of pregnancy, and again in late pregnancy.