Friday, March 22, 2024

Sinus Congestion Medicine For Pregnancy

Safe Constipation Remedies During Pregnancy

Sinus Relief During Pregnancy | Relieving Nasal Congestion Druring Pregnancy
  • Metamucil, Citracel, Fibercon, Benefiber
  • Stool softeners colace ,1 tablet 2-3 times a day, pericolace ,1 tablet 1-3 times a day
  • Laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia, Correctal, Fleets enema and Miralax
  • Imodium liquid or capsules for diarrhea
  • Psyllium, which is the basic ingredient in Konsyl and Metamucil
  • Colace

Is It A Cold Or The Flu

The best way to tell the difference between a cold and the flu is to take account of the typical symptoms.

  • A cold is milder than the flu. Its symptoms come on gradually and typically you only run a low-grade to no fever. It generally starts off with a sore throat that goes away after a day or two, a cold ends with the main symptoms of a runny nose and cough.
  • Influenza, commonly called the flu, is more severe and the onset is more sudden than a cold. Symptoms include a high fever , headache, chills, a sore throat that typically worsens by the second or third day, intense muscle soreness, and a general feeling of weakness and fatigue. These symptoms, along with sneezing and a cough, can last a couple of weeks or longer.

Tests For A Sinus Infection During Pregnancy

If you seek medical attention, your doctor may conduct a variety of tests. These include:

  • Nasal endoscopy. Your doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube into your nose to examine your sinuses.
  • Imaging tests. Your doctor may order a CT scan or an MRI to take pictures of your sinuses to help them confirm a diagnosis.

Depending on your specific case, your doctor may also order a nasal and sinus culture to determine the underlying cause of your sinus infection. You may also undergo allergy testing to see whether allergies are triggering your chronic sinus infections.

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Can I Take Dayquil While Pregnant

Medications to avoid during pregnancy

Decongestants like Sudafed and DayQuil are generally cautioned against after the first trimester and only in a limited amount. Avoid non-steroidal nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline. Dont take supplemental vitamins or herbal remedies without medical approval.

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What Can I Take For Pain

Congestion During Pregnancy

Regular and extra-strength Tylenol is a good option to help with any aches or pains you might have during pregnancy. Follow the dosage instructions on the bottle to make sure you are taking a safe amount. Other medications like Advil or Aleve can have negative side effects during pregnancy and should be avoided.

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What Can I Take For Indigestion And Heartburn

Tums, Maalox and Mylanta are all recommended options to help relieve indigestion and heartburn caused by the increase in progesterone and pressure from your uterus. You can also try eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoid eating 2-3 hours before bed to help stop indigestion or heartburn. If it continues, talk to your doctor about possible prescription medications you might be able to take.

These Surprising Safer Alternatives May Be A Better Choice

Mothers-to-be get headaches and upset stomachs just like everyone else. So its not surprising that most pregnant women have used over-the-counter medications. In fact, some data suggest that, overall, women are actually more likely to use certain medicationsincluding cough and cold drugs and acetaminophen after they become pregnant.

Theres a misperception that if a drug is available over-the-counter, that its approved by the Food and Drug Administration, so it must be safe for everyone, including pregnant women, Allen Mitchell, M.D. professor of pediatrics and epidemiology at the Boston University School of Public Health and Medicine, said. Even doctors may think this is the case. But some OTC drugs have been shown to pose risks to the developing fetus at different stages of pregnancy.

To help you and your doctor make more informed choices about which medications to take, weve identified 10 common ingredients used in OTC drugs that are risky for pregnant women, as well as safer alternatives.

Even then, you should use alternatives judiciously, and only as advised by your health care provider. Experts refer to safer medications because for 98 percent of prescription and OTC drugs, there simply isnt enough data to say for sure that a drug is entirely safe to take during pregnancy. Due to ethical concerns, most FDA-approved medicines have not been tested in pregnant women.

Tell us below.

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Sinus Infection While Pregnant

Pregnancy comes with its own set of challenges that can make dealing with a sinus infection much harder than normal. For one, you are more likely to get sick, as pregnancy suppresses the immune system.

These natural changes in immunity exist to strike a balance between the mothers health and to protect the baby from disease. Additionally, certain parts of the immune system are suppressed to prevent the body from rejecting the fetus as something foreign.

While these are all natural functions, they unfortunately make sinusitis a pervasive threat, particularly for those who have been susceptible to infections in the past. Additionally, several conventional sinusitis treatments are unsafe for pregnant women, so it is important to know what you can and cannot use to treat your sinus infection while pregnant.

The good news is that, despite these challenges, a sinus infection will most likely not affect your unborn child. The first step is to determine whether or not you have sinusitis.

Congestion And Allergy Symptoms

SinuSonic for Congestion During Pregnancy

For congestion issues, antihistamines such as diphenhydramine and loratidine appear to be safe during pregnancy. Avoid pseudoephedrine , since it may be associated with birth defects involving babys abdominal wall. Also, decongestants may affect blood flow to the placenta and should generally be avoided throughout your pregnancy.

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How Can I Treat The Flu Naturally While Pregnant

For symptoms, try these four natural flu remedies:

  • Use sugar- or honey-based lozenges to relieve sore throats and coughs.
  • Get plenty of bed rest.
  • Drink lots of fluids, like water, juice, and caffeine-free tea.
  • Put an air humidifier in your room to provide extra moisture, which can help ease congestion.
  • What Type Of Mucinex Is Safe During Pregnancy

    The drug diamethorphan is used to treat children with attention deficit disorder. Over-the-counter cough medicine, dextromethorphan, is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy because of its mild side effects. Dr. says that this medication suppresses coughs by affecting the brains signals that trigger coughing.

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    Causes Of A Congested Nose While Pregnant

    Pregnancy rhinitis is thought to be caused by hormonal changes. Increases in hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, and placental growth hormone can cause the lining of the nasal passage to swell, which increases mucus production. This theory is further backed up by the fact that some people report congestion symptoms during their menstrual cycles or with the use of birth control pills.

    Some other potential causes are:

    • More blood circulates through the body during pregnancy. This can cause the blood vessels in the nose to swell, which can lead to nasal congestion.
    • Blood flow to the mucous membranes increases, which can produce excess mucus and feelings of congestion.
    • Sometimes the cause is a natural enlargement of the nasal veins, which can occur during pregnancy.
    • People who have allergies pre-pregnancy are more likely to experience allergy symptoms during their pregnancy as well.

    Pregnancy And Otc Cough Cold And Analgesic Preparations

    Home Remedies For Nasal Congestion

    Benefits Versus RisksIn the United States, about 150,000 babies are born each year with birth defects.7 Birth defects can occur due to many nonpharmacologic factors. Some of the most common defects are spina bifida, microtia, hypoplastic left heart, cleft palate, cleft lip, esophageal atresia, anencephaly, omphalocele, and limb reduction.7 Practitioners must weigh the benefits versus the risks when recommending OTC analgesics and cough and cold preparations to pregnant women. Since ailments treated with OTC and herbal products in pregnant women are not usually life-threatening, practitioners should also consider suggesting nonpharmacologic remedies, such as rest and fluids.This article presents information on some common OTC analgesic and cough and cold preparations available. Each section discusses the product, pregnancy category, information regarding safety data in pregnancy, dosing, side effects, and contraindications. The comparison of risks and benefits must be considered for each individual patient. Information relating to when patients should refer to a physician is included to assist with the decision-making process.

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    Pain Due To Headaches Or Sore Throat

    Acetaminophen

    Acetaminophen is a first-choice medication for pain relief in pregnant people. Some researchers suggest that taking acetaminophen during pregnancy might not be as safe as previously thought. But ACOG still recommends it as one of the only safe pain relievers expectant mothers can take.

    How Do I Know If I Have A Cold During Pregnancy

    Symptoms of a cold during pregnancy are no different than the usual cold symptoms. These include:

    • Cough

    A cold can be easily confused with the flu because the two infections share many of the same symptoms. But unlike a cold, the flu can also cause more serious symptoms. These include:

    • Fever

    • Chills

    • Headaches

    Having a fever in early pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. If you notice a fever at any time during your pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider to see if treatment is needed.

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    Safely Treating Sinus Congestion While Pregnant

    These five tips for treating sinus congestion while pregnant can help you get over your stuffy nose without using medication that might pose a risk to baby.

    1. Avoid Allergens and Pollutants

    Avoid unnecessary exposure to nasal allergens and pollutants, such as smog and cigarette smoke.

    2. Keep Yourself Hydrated

    Drinking even more water than usual each day is very effective in treating sinus congestion while pregnant.

    3. Keep Your Nasal Passages Clear

    Flush your nasal passages with saltwater nose drops several times a day. These are available without a prescription, or you can make your own. To make your own saltwater drops, use a quarter teaspoon of salt to a cup of water.

    4. Use a Facial Steamer for Treating Sinus Congestion

    Clear sinus congestion while pregnant with a simple facial steamer. A facial steamer is a hot mist vaporizer. A facial steamer steam cleans your nasal passageways.

    5. Consider Nasal Sprays

    Medicines that constrict the noses blood vessels may enter the bloodstream and constrict the uterus or placenta blood vessels. Therefore, decongestants should be used only under a doctors supervision and only in the dosage and frequency your doctor recommends.

    Some nasal sprays are safer than others. Except for saltwater nasal spray, consult your doctor before taking nasal sprays.

    Afrin

    • Afrin , when used only twice a day and for a couple of days, hasnt been shown to cause harmful effects on the developing baby.

    Inhaled Nasal Steroids

    Cromolyn

    Antihistamines

    Sinus Infection While Pregnant: Medication And Natural Remedies

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    Sinus pressure, a stuffy nose, and a sore throat? Welcome to a sinus infection during pregnancy. Sinus infections while pregnant at the same time makes being sick even worse.Sinusitis occurs when there is an infection in the lining of one of the four nasal cavities, which can cause inflammation and a nasal obstruction inhibiting the proper drainage of mucus. This can result in symptoms such as a stuffy nose and painful pressure around your cheeks and eyes. Such infections may be caused by a bacteria, virus, or fungus, although the cold is the most common contributing factor of sinus infections. Learn more about dealing with a cold during pregnancy.If you have a sinus infection during pregnancy, you may be tempted to take some medication for a quick fix. However, while certain medications are safe to use during pregnancy, other commonly used medications may not be safe to take while pregnant. You may also find that some home remedies may be just as effective in alleviating your symptoms and helping you recover.

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    Pregnant And Breastfeeding Women

    It’s not clear whether it’s safe to take any type of decongestant if you’re pregnant, so you should only use them if told to by a healthcare professional.

    Some decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops are safe to use if you’re breastfeeding, but check with a pharmacist or GP first before using them.

    The patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine will say who should not use it and who should get advice before using it.

    More Than Just A Stuffy Nose

    Pregnancy rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the nose. This causes nasal congestion. Increased blood flow to the nasal passages and enlargement of the nasal veins also play a role.

    Symptoms occur during pregnancy. They can last for several weeks. On top of feeling uncomfortable, your sleep may be disrupted. This is because the congestion gets worse when you lie down. This may make you to feel more tired during the day. Long-lasting congestion also can lead to complications. These can include sinusitis and ear infections.

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    Safe Cough And Sore Throat Remedies During Pregnancy

    • Honey
    • Dextromethorphan or Dextromethorphan-guaifenesin, such as Robitussin and Robitussin DM. 120 mg in 24 hours
    • Nasal drops or sprays
    • Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, for aches, pains, sore throat and fever
    • Salt water gargling
    • Menthol rub on chest, temples and under the nose
    • Chloraseptic spray
    • Nasal strips
    • Cough drops or lozenges containing benzocaine
    • Expectorant during the day

    Cough and Flu Medications to Avoid During Pregnancy

    • Aspirin
    • Bactrim, an antibiotic

    The Difference Between Pregnancy Rhinitis And A Cold Or The Flu

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    The difference between a cold and pregnancy rhinitis is both the symptoms and the length of time the symptoms are experienced. Pregnancy rhinitis lasts six weeks or longer, while a common cold usually only lasts a week. Additionally, the only symptom of pregnancy rhinitis is congestion. The flu has other symptoms, such as a fever and a sore throat.

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    Are Decongestants Safe During Pregnancy

    Allergies plague many of us every year. In fact, one in five adults suffers from allergies. Allergens are often called hay fever, or Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis, and the most common symptoms are sneezing, stuffiness, a runny nose, and itchiness in the mouth, throat, eyes, or ears. Allergies often do not stop when women become pregnant the question of whether the use of decongestants is safe during pregnancy is often an unclear answer to many women suffering from allergies.

    Over-the-counter decongestants are, for the most part, safe during pregnancy, physicians advise. Most decongestants do not contain enough medication to cause problems with baby, especially if used for short periods. Nasal spray decongestants are even safer, since the medication is almost entirely absorbed within the nose and does not travel through the body. As a general rule, physicians advise patients that if they can buy it without visiting the pharmacy counter, short term use will not harm the baby during pregnancy.

    Many health care providers recommend using medication that is considered a Category B drug, such as the decongestant Sudafed® or the antihistamine Claritin® when allergies strike. Category B drugs have been shown through animal testing to not harm an unborn baby when the mother takes the medication during pregnancy. If a runny nose is more of a problem than a congested one, antihistamines such as Diphenhydramine, Loratadine or Cetirizine are all safe to take during pregnancy.

    How To Use Decongestants

    Most decongestants should only be used between 1 and 4 times a day.

    Check the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine for advice about how much to take and how often to take it.

    If you’re not sure, ask a pharmacist for advice.

    Speak to a GP if your symptoms do not improve after this time.

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    When To Contact Your Doctor:

    • If you are coughing up green or yellow mucus
    • If you have a fever above 101° F
    • If you cannot eat or sleep

    If your infection is not improving, your doctor may prescribe medication. Your doctor will determine the best medication to take that is safe for you and your baby. While sinus infections are not fun, there are ways you can take care of yourself either through medication or home remedies to alleviate your symptoms and promote your recovery.

    Want to Know More?

    • Keep track of your medication by downloading the Fetal Life App for Apple and Android endorsed by the American Pregnancy Association. It features medicine tracking, meal recommendations, kicks counter, blood glucose tracking, and much more.

    Compiled using information from the following sources:

    1. Harms, R. W. . . Mayo Clinic guide to a healthy pregnancy . New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers Inc.

    2. Jordan, R. G., Engstrom, J. L., Marfell, J. A., & Farley, C. L. . . Prenatal and postnatal care: A woman-centered approach. Ames, IA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

    3. Larson, D. E. . . Mayo Clinic family health book: The ultimate illustrated home medical reference. New York, NY: William Morrow and Company, Inc.

    4. Simkin, P., Whalley, J., & Keppler, A. . Pregnancy, childbirth, and the newborn: The complete guide. Gorham, K. . Deephaven, MN: Meadowbrook Press.

    Sinus Infection Relief During Pregnancy

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    For most people, the first sign they have a sinus infection is a headache affecting the front of the face.Pregnancy complicates sinus infection treatment because fewer medications can be used safely. Many naturopathic treatments can provide symptomatic relief. If you suspect you have a sinus infection and you are pregnant, talk with your obstetrician to determine the best course of action.

    If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

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