How to Cope With Allergies During Pregnancy

Women who suffer from allergies may see their symptoms worsen during pregnancy. The hormonal changes that happen during pregnancy affect the sinus passages and lungs, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. What was once a moderate allergy may become more severe during pregnancy. Although some allergy medications may be safe to take during pregnancy, some could affect the baby. Each woman's pregnancy is different, so the use of medication should be discussed with a doctor. In the meantime, women who suffer from allergies during pregnancy can use some other methods to cope.

Things You'll Need

  • Nasal strips
  • Air purifier
  • Neti pot

Instructions

    • 1

      Keep away from known allergens. Exposure to allergens could worsen your symptoms. If you are allergic to pet dander, for example, stay far away from the neighbor's dog.

    • 2

      Manually open up your nasal passages. Use nasal strips when you are sleeping to open up your nasal passages and make it easier to breathe.

    • 3

      Clean the air. Place an air purifier in your room or home to remove pollution, dust and other allergens from the environment.

    • 4

      Give your nose a good cleaning. Treat your nose with a saline nasal spray, which will soothe and open your nasal passages. Saline solutions contain a bit of salt and no medication.

    • 5

      Cozy up indoors. Stay inside in the morning when the pollen count is usually at the highest levels, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

    • 6

      Pamper your body and try to remain as healthy as possible. This will help your immune system fight the allergy symptoms. Check with your doctor to see what kind of exercise is safe for the baby, and eat a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables.

    • 7

      Pass the buck. Ask your partner to do the cleaning if dust triggers your sneezing. Consider hiring a housekeeper to do the dirty work for you. Not only will this take some of the stress off of you, but it's also an excellent baby shower idea for your friends who would like to get together and purchase you a meaningful gift.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • Is it Normal Not to Have Morning Sickness When Pregnant?
      Pregnancy is filled with a lot of myths and old wives tales. One of the myths is that every pregnant woman has to have morning sickness. It is completely normal to not have morning sickness when pregnant, and it is considered healthy. Morning sicknes
    • What Are the First Signs of Being Pregnant?
      Whether expanding your family was a conscious decision or an unexpected twist, the early signs of pregnancy remain the same. While only a positive pregnancy test can confirm that you are pregnant, some of the first signs you experience may indicate t
    • Surviving Pregnancy With a Toddler
      When that positive pregnancy test appears and you’ve got a toddler in tow keeping you busy, you might wonder how you will cope with everything. Although pregnancy can be challenging, especially when you have older children, a little creative ma