Allergic rhinitis is an allergic condition that causes cold-like symptoms from airborne allergens. Allergic rhinitis does not pose any health risk to a pregnant mother or her growing fetus but can cause considerable discomfort. Pregnancy can increase the amount of nasal congestion in a pregnant woman, and allergic rhinitis and can add to the discomfort. The main concern for pregnant women with allergic rhinitis is the use of medications to treat the symptoms. Pregnant women should talk with their doctors before using any medication.
Causes
Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction to airborne substances such as pet dander, dust, pollen or mold spores. When someone inhales an airborne allergen, the immune system fights it off, releasing various chemicals that lead to allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center.
Natural Treatment
The most effective treatment for allergic rhinitis in pregnancy is to avoid all known allergens. During springtime, pregnant allergy sufferers should stay indoors and avoid exposure to outside air by keeping windows and doors closed. A clean home free of dust and visible mold will help minimize allergy symptoms. Covering bedding with allergy covers prevents allergens from entering the body during sleep, according to Medline Plus. Pregnant women can use saline sprays and humidifiers to soothe and moisten the sinus cavity.
Medical Treatment
The most common treatments for allergic rhinitis are over-the-counter antihistamines that have not been confirmed safe in pregnancy, according to Baby Centre. Pregnant women should discuss medication use during pregnancy with a physician before treatment begins, according to the National Health Service. Some pregnant women take medicines to treat hay fever symptoms. If the benefit outweighs the risk, a doctor may recommend the use of medications. Doctors can prescribe nasal corticosteroid sprays for pregnant women. If used as directed, the medication will not enter the bloodstream and will not affect the growing fetus. Some eye drops are safe for treating eye irritation.
Precautions
Women who have received allergy shots to treat allergic rhinitis may continue to do so. Women who have never received immunotherapy should not begin treatment until after the fetus is born. Pregnant women should not use decongestants because they dilate blood vessels.
Warning
Every pregnant woman should avoid the use of drugs when possible. Pregnant women should not self-medicate without a doctor's supervision, and they should communicate any side effects that they experience from medications their doctors prescribe or recommended.
