Pregnancy, in all its beauty, can still have its unpleasant moments. Morning sickness and backaches are not the only discomforts that women may experience. In addition to allergy symptoms, women may suffer from pregnancy rhinitis. Otherwise known as severe nasal congestion, this miserable reaction affects about 20 to 30 percent of women. “We don’t know exactly what causes it” says Dr. Scott Cordray, an ear, nose, and throat (Otolaryngologist) specialist of Tulsa, Oklahoma. “It is tied to the growth hormone given off by the placenta.”
So, how can pregnancy rhinitis be treated? Since nasal steroids and oral histamines are not recommended for women that are pregnant, Dr. Cordray suggests that they find an organic remedy.
If there was any season to search for a method of treatment, the season is now. According to the Center for Disease Control, there is more pollen in the air, meaning allergy season is here earlier than expected. “Even those that never experienced allergy symptoms are being affected” says Dr. Cordray. So, what are some other ways pregnant women can deal with the discomforts of swollen sinuses?
How to Manage Swollen Sinuses While Pregnant
- Avoid known allergens such as smoke, pollen and dust mites.
- When sleeping, elevate your head; keeping your nose above your heart will help to reduce any swelling.
- Get plenty of physical exercise
- Practice good nasal hygiene using a natural Dead Sea Salt nasal spray or nasal wash, which can reduce swelling and congestion
- Use a mechanical nasal strip or dilator to help hold nasal passages open
According to Dr. Cordray, pregnancy rhinitis will all resolve itself 2 to 3 weeks following the delivery of your child. After all, Dr. Cordray is no stranger to chronic sinusitis, or allergic rhinitis. His over-the-counter LAVI products use purified salts to treat, relieve, and prevent allergy symptoms. While his Dead Sea Salt products are all-natural remedies that may be used to treat pregnancy rhinitis, Dr. Corday insists that you check with your Obstetrician to confirm that they are in agreeance with your method of relief.
