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Nasal congestion in pregnancy
Last reviewed: 05.07.2025
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[ Causes of nasal congestion during pregnancy
Nasal congestion during pregnancy is due to the fact that every cell in the woman's body is adapting to this new condition. Breathing can be very difficult.
During pregnancy, an uninterrupted supply of oxygen to the body is especially important. But, unfortunately, allergies or bacterial rhinitis can interfere with this. Runny nose and allergic reactions in pregnant women are more common due to decreased immunity during pregnancy.
Also, under the influence of female sex hormones, you may have frequent, minor nosebleeds. Everything will pass after childbirth. Usually, nasal congestion and bleeding from it begin to bother a pregnant woman in the third trimester, but they can also occur at earlier stages.
Severe nasal congestion during pregnancy
Severe nasal congestion during pregnancy is a fairly common complaint of expectant mothers. A cold or infection, as with all people, can cause a runny nose. In this case, there is a discharge of green thick pus from the nose and a sore throat. To overcome this condition, you need to irrigate your nose with a saline solution.
If the cause of the runny nose is an allergy, you need to eliminate the factor that causes it. The doctor can also prescribe you antihistamines that are allowed during pregnancy. You cannot use any vasoconstrictor drops like Nazol!
To avoid nasal congestion during pregnancy, avoid contact with smoke and delegate cleaning with household chemicals to other family members.
Do a massage: first press on the bridge of the nose, then massage the area between the nose and lips.
Pinch your right nasal passage, inhale through the left, and exhale through your mouth. Do the same with the other nostril.
Remember that lack of oxygen can cause developmental delays in the baby, so severe nasal congestion should not be ignored.
Constant nasal congestion during pregnancy
Constant nasal congestion during pregnancy is caused by the so-called pregnancy runny nose. Try using Fleming's ointment to treat it. Put cotton swabs in the nasal passages for 15 minutes. The ointment contains components that are safe for pregnant women: calendula, esculus, menthol. The only contraindication for using the ointment can be an allergy to its components.
You can use nasal drops for newborns, for example, Tizin Xylo. It constricts the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa. Indications: viral, bacterial, allergic rhinitis of pregnancy, sinusitis, sinusitis. Instill 2-3 drops of the drug 3 times a day. Reactive hyperemia of the mucosa, increased fatigue, headache, tachycardia are possible. Tizin Xylo is not prescribed to pregnant women with cardiovascular diseases.
Nasal congestion as a sign of pregnancy
Nasal congestion during early pregnancy is one of its signs, as well as toxicosis, sensitivity to odors and chest pain. This is due to the intense hormonal changes in the woman's body. You may also start snoring - this is also an early sign of pregnancy. Sneezing and watery eyes may bother you. Pay attention to the metallic taste in your mouth, bloating and heartburn.
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Treatment of nasal congestion during pregnancy
Nasal congestion during pregnancy is well treated with the drug Aquamaris based on sea salt. It does not constrict the placental vessels, like Naphitizin. Aquamaris does not contain any chemicals.
It is especially good to use Aquamaris spray for irrigation of all parts of the nose. Aquamaris helps to eliminate inflammation and increases local immunity. The drug is used 4-6 times a day, making two sprays in each nostril. Aquamaris has no side effects, except for possible allergic reactions.
It is useful to put sea buckthorn oil, peach oil, and carrot juice into your nose.
More information of the treatment
Preventing Nasal Congestion During Pregnancy
Nasal congestion during pregnancy can be caused not only by hormonal changes, but also by bacteria and viruses. So in the fall and winter, when going to the clinic for a check-up, wear a mask. Wash your hands with bacterial soap or use antibacterial wipes where there is no opportunity to wash your hands. After a walk or a routine check-up at the clinic, rinse your nasal cavity. Ask your doctor to prescribe you vitamins for pregnant women. Ventilate your apartment and pay attention to the humidity in your home.
Nasal congestion during pregnancy should not cause you any particular concern if it is not accompanied by other signs of acute respiratory viral infection, but nevertheless, it is necessary to restore breathing using remedies for newborns and folk methods so that the child does not suffer from oxygen starvation under any circumstances.