Understanding Pregnancy Rhinitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Remedies

What does pregnancy rhinitis feel like? Is it normal to have a blocked nose during pregnancy? How do you get rid of rhinitis during pregnancy? Here's what expectant mums need to know. 

Pregnancy is a unique and transformative experience for women. While many aspects of pregnancy are celebrated, there are some lesser-known discomforts that come with the journey. One of these often-overlooked discomforts is pregnancy rhinitis. 

What is Pregnancy Rhinitis

Pregnancy rhinitis is a condition in which pregnant women experience nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. It is a non-allergic rhinitis that occurs solely during pregnancy. Unlike regular allergic rhinitis, rhinitis during pregnancy is not caused by allergens but by hormonal changes in the body.

Is It Normal to Have a Blocked Nose During Pregnancy?

Yes, it's entirely normal to experience nasal congestion during pregnancy. In fact, it's estimated that up to 30% of pregnant women will develop pregnancy rhinitis. The hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy can affect the nasal passages and lead to congestion and other symptoms.

When Does Pregnancy Rhinitis Start?

Nasal congestion during pregnancy usually starts during the second trimester, around the 14th week of pregnancy, and can last until childbirth or sometimes a few weeks postpartum. In some cases, it may appear earlier or later in pregnancy.

Common Cold vs. Pregnancy Rhinitis

It's easy to mistake pregnancy rhinitis for a common cold, especially because they share common symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose. However, there are key differences:

1. Duration: A common cold typically lasts for about one to two weeks, while nasal congestion during pregnancy can persist for the duration of the pregnancy and sometimes beyond.

2. Fever and Body Aches: Colds often come with symptoms like fever and body aches, which are not associated with pregnancy rhinitis.

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3. Allergies: Unlike pregnancy rhinitis, allergies can trigger allergic rhinitis, which is more likely to be recurrent and is associated with specific allergens.

4. Onset: Rhinitis during pregnancy usually starts in the second trimester and is often linked to hormonal changes. A cold can strike at any time and is typically caused by viral infections.

What Causes Nasal Congestion During Pregnancy

Hormonal fluctuations play a pivotal role in the onset of pregnancy rhinitis. The levels of estrogen and progesterone increase significantly during pregnancy. These hormones can lead to blood vessels in the nasal passages becoming engorged and causing congestion.

Additionally, these hormonal changes can lead to increased mucus production, further contributing to the symptoms of nasal congestion during pregnancy

Pregnancy Rhinitis Symptoms

1. Nasal Congestion: The hallmark symptom is a stuffy or blocked nose, often more pronounced at night.

2. Runny Nose: Alongside congestion, you may experience a constantly dripping or runny nose.

3. Sneezing: Frequent sneezing is another common symptom.

4. Postnasal Drip: Excess mucus can lead to postnasal drip, which may cause throat irritation and coughing.

5. Itchy or Watery Eyes: Some women may experience mild eye symptoms.

6. Reduced Sense of Smell: The congestion can result in a diminished sense of smell.

How to Cure Pregnancy Rhinitis

While it be completely cured, there are ways to manage and alleviate its symptoms:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking fluids helps thin the mucus and alleviate congestion.
2. Nasal Saline Irrigation: Rinsing your nasal passages with saline solution or nasal drops can provide relief by clearing excess mucus.
3. Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can prevent your nasal passages from drying out and becoming more congested.
4. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Sleeping with your head propped up can reduce nighttime congestion.
5. Avoid Triggers: If certain environmental factors exacerbate your symptoms, like tobacco smoke or strong odours, try to avoid them.
6. Inhale Steam: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can help clear nasal passages.
7. Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to your sinuses for a few minutes to relieve congestion.
8. Herbal Remedies: Sip ginger tea for its anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate congestion, while a drop or two of diluted peppermint oil, when applied under your nose or diffused, can help clear your airways.
9. Over-the-Counter Decongestants: Always consult your healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter medications during pregnancy. They may recommend a safe decongestant if necessary.
10. Prescription Medications: In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe specific medications to manage your symptoms.

Remember, it's crucial to consult your healthcare provider before trying any remedies, as some treatments may not be suitable during pregnancy.

When to Seek Medical Help for Pregnancy Rhinitis

While nasal congestion during pregnancy is usually harmless, there are instances where you should seek medical attention:

1. Severe Symptoms: If your symptoms become severe and do not respond to home remedies.

2. Suspected Infection: If you suspect you have a sinus or respiratory infection, consult your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.

3. Breathing Difficulties: If you experience severe difficulty breathing, contact your doctor immediately.

4. Medication Concerns: If you are considering taking over-the-counter medications, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Remember, it's always a good practice to keep your healthcare provider informed about any changes or discomforts you experience during pregnancy.

Pregnancy rhinitis is a common but often misunderstood aspect of pregnancy. It's essential for expectant mothers to recognise the symptoms, understand the causes, and know how to manage them safely. With the right knowledge and self-care, pregnancy rhinitis can be more of a minor inconvenience than a significant disruption to this extraordinary journey into motherhood.

Here at theAsianparent Singapore, it's important for us to give information that is correct, significant, and timely. But this doesn't serve as an alternative for medical advice or medical treatment. theAsianparent Singapore is not responsible for those that would choose to drink medicines based on information from our website. If you have any doubts, we recommend consulting your doctor for clearer information.