Managing Seasonal Allergies During Pregnancy: Tips for a Healthier Spring
Welcome, spring! For many, the season brings a burst of vibrant wildflowers, majestic trees, and lush grasses. However, for others, it brings the misery of seasonal allergies. The combination of pollen, mold, and other springtime allergens can be particularly challenging, especially for those who are pregnant.
Pregnancy can exacerbate allergy symptoms, leading to increased fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and more severe respiratory complications if asthma is present. It’s crucial to keep asthma symptoms well-managed during pregnancy for the health of both mother and baby.
Simple Solutions for Allergy Relief
An over-the-counter (OTC) saline nose spray can be effective in rinsing away pollen, dust, and other allergens from your nasal passages. This option is generally considered safe during pregnancy, with no expected risks to the developing baby.
To improve your sleep quality, try using OTC nasal strips to open nasal passages at night. Additionally, using a pillow cover can help reduce exposure to dust and other allergens. Sleeping with your head slightly elevated can also aid in sinus drainage and reduce inflammation.
Consulting with Healthcare Providers
It’s important to discuss the pros and cons of various allergy medications with your healthcare provider. Before reaching for any OTC medications, consider their potential impacts. If you have questions about specific allergy medications during pregnancy, including prescription options, speak with your healthcare provider or contact us at MotherToBaby for guidance.
Happy spring, and take care!
References
- Garavello W, et al. Nasal lavage in pregnant women with seasonal allergic rhinitis: A randomized study. International Archives of Allergy and Immunology 2010;151:137.
- Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters for Allergy and Immunology. Rhinitis 2020: A practice parameter update. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2020;146(4):721-767.
- Seasonal Allergies. American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Available at: http://acaai.org/allergies/types/seasonal. Accessed May 15, 2023.
