What Can You Take For Sinus When Pregnant

When You Should See A Doctor

In many situations, people can take care of a sinus infection with remedies from home.

However, if a pregnant woman notices the following symptoms, it is in their best interest to visit their doctor immediately:

• A fever passing 101°F
• Coughing up green or yellow mucus
• Difficulty eating or sleeping
• Persistent sinus infections

A doctor may prescribe medication to get rid of the infection, which could affect the womans overall health and pregnancy trimester.

How Can I Manage Pregnancy Rhinitis

To ease congestion and other symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis, try these tips:

• Pregnancy-safe exerciseis one of the best ways to relieve pregnancy rhinitis. Exercise can also help keep your pregnancy weight gain in check, which helps minimize pregnancy congestion.
• Elevate your head with extra pillows when you lie down to rest or sleep, which can help ease pregnancy rhinitis.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Just be sure to focus on water , and try to minimize sugary beverages like juice and soda.
• Take a warm shower and linger in the steamy bathroom. Steam is soothing and temporarily relieves congestion.
• Soak a washcloth with hot water, hold it up to your face, and breathe.
• Try using saline nose drops or saline nasal spray three to four times a day to clear your nasal passages. They’re available over the counter at drugstores, or you can make a saline solution at home using 1 cup of warm water, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of baking soda.
• Apply nasal strips also available OTC at your local drugstore to the bridge of your nose at night, which widen your nasal passages and can make it easier to breathe.
• Use a humidifier or vaporizer in your bedroom when you sleep to add moisture to the air.
• Avoid cigarette smoke and any other potential irritants that seem to trigger your symptoms.

Talk With Your Doctor

Mucinex is likely safe to take while breastfeeding and during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Before taking any medication while pregnant or breastfeeding, its a good idea to talk to your doctor first. You may want to review this article with your doctor and ask any questions you have. Here are some questions to get you started:

• Is Mucinex, Mucinex D, or Mucinex DM safe for me to take?
• Which of these products would work best for my symptoms?
• Am I taking any other medications that contain the same ingredients as Mucinex?
• Are there other, non-drug ways to help relieve my symptoms?
• Do I have any health problems that Mucinex could affect?

Your doctor can help you find relief from your symptoms while keeping your pregnancy or your child safe.

Note: There are many other forms of Mucinex not listed in this article, such as Maximum Strength Mucinex Fast-Max Severe Cold. Other forms may contain other medications, such as acetaminophen and phenylephrine. This article only addresses Mucinex, Mucinex D, and Mucinex DM. If youd like to know about the effects of the other forms of Mucinex, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

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What Causes Headaches During Pregnancy

The primary culprits are pregnancy hormones, though there are many other causes of headaches during every stage of pregnancy. This type of pain can have lots of triggers, which means it can come on at any time. Some common causes:

• Hormones: Headaches are often an early sign of pregnancy and tend to begin during the first trimester when your hormone levels surge and blood volume increases.
• Trigger foods: Certain foods like cheese, chocolate, dairy and processed meats like bacon can trigger a headache in any trimester. Women who drink less caffeine in pregnancy may get withdrawal headaches.
• Sinus congration: If youre suffering from sinus congestion, a runny nose or allergies , a headache may accompany these symptoms.
• Dehydration: The dehydration that often goes hand in hand with nausea and vomiting can also cause your head to throb.
• High blood pressure: After week 20 in pregnancy, severe headaches may be related to high blood pressure. This may raise your risk of a number of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and premature delivery, so it’s important to talk to your doctor if you notice this symptom.

Other causes can include:

• Physical or emotional stress

On the bright side, at least for those already prone to migraines: Surging hormones during pregnancy might actually make those less-than-pleasant headaches less frequent.

From Cold And Cough To Hemorrhoid And Nausea We Break Down Safe Otc Medications To Take While Pregnant

Its the dead of winter and you cant sleep, because youre 7 months pregnant and your baby has decided to be nocturnal. You know you need sleep, because lack of good rest inhibits your immune system. This stresses you out, because your spouse has a nasty cold, and youd rather avoid it.

Your spouse is resting peacefully in the guest room because he has a plethora of over-the-counter medications at his disposal.

But not you. Youre pregnant, and your OTC medicine choices are extremely limited. So, you hope to stay healthy amid the stress and discomfort of pregnancy. Not to mention its cold and flu season.

Then, you realize. Your nose is running. Your sinuses feel clogged. Youre getting sick.

Your first instinct is to want to grab those great medications your spouse is taking. But you know you have to be careful.

In no time, youre miserable with symptoms of the common cold. Youre desperate for relief, but you know the safety of your baby is paramount.

Advanced Womens Healthcare is here to help with a comprehensive list of safe over-the-counter medications to take during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor for the best personalized choices for you.

Pregnant women: Dont forget to get your flu shot at AWH Dallas!

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Medicines That Are Safe For Pregnant Women To Take When Sick

When you are pregnant, your immune system doesnt operate at maximum capacity, which is actually a good thing because it keeps your growing baby protected, and stops your body from thinking the fetus is an intruder. However, this comes with the downside that your body cant ward off the viruses that cause the common cold quite as effectively. This can leave you vulnerable to the symptoms that come along, including a congested nose, cough, and sore throat.

As we move into cold and flu season, you may find yourself coming down with a cold, and while you can rest assured that your baby isnt experiencing any of them, you want to get rid of the symptoms quickly and safely. While colds are mostly an uncomfortable annoyance best managed by a little extra rest, fluids, and patience, you may find yourself seeking out cold medications to alleviate your symptoms. We recommend making a so they can steer you in the right direction in terms of cold medications that are considered safe during pregnancy. Here are our own recommendations on what to do if you get sick while pregnant.

Sinus Infection While Pregnant: When To Call A Doctor

Jillian Stenzel

Jillian Stenzel

A Nevada-bred traveler & food nerd who dances & eats spinach, sometimes simultaneously. She writes from wherever her curiosity demands, and is passionate about spreading the wisdom of better health.

Ken Cosby M.D.

Ken Cosby M.D.

Dr. Ken Cosby received his medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine and completed his research post-doc work at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health including the National Heart Lung Blood Institute and the National Cancer Institute.

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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.

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Treating A Cold Or Flu In Early Pregnancy

While it is usually recommended that women avoid medications during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, there are exceptions. Tylenol to prevent fever is recommended, as fever can be detrimental to a developing embryo.

This is not to suggest that all drugs have a potential for harm. In many cases, they donât. But, in others, we simply donât know. For this reason alone, you should adhere to your doctorâs advice to avoid all medications for at least the first 12 weeks.

Instead, make every effort to help your body recover by slowing down, resting, and avoiding stresses that can affect your immune system. You can do this by:

• Staying in bed, napping, and getting as much rest as possible
• Drinking plenty of water, soup broth, or juice
• Gargling with salt water to treat a sore throat or cough
• Sucking on ice chips to alleviate a sore throat and to help with hydration
• Using a humidifier to help relieve congestion
• Eating small, healthy meals regularly
• Taking your prenatal vitamins

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When To See Your Doctor

A sinus infection can resolve itself with home treatment. But there are times when you should see a doctor.

Make an appointment with your doctor if your symptoms dont improve with OTC medications or home remedies, or if your symptoms worsen.

Contact your doctor if you have a fever higher than 101°F , or if you start coughing up green or yellow mucus. Also see your doctor if you have recurrent sinus infections.

Leaving a severe sinus infection untreated increases the risk of complications, such as meningitis. Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes in the brain or spinal cord.

An untreated infection can spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, eyes, and skin. It can also affect your sense of smell.

Sinus Congestion During Pregnancy

Do you have stuffed sinuses? If you do, you are not alone. Nearly every woman will suffer sinus congestion during pregnancy. Sinus congestion during pregnancy is extremely common. Nearly 1/3 of all pregnancies are affected by sinus congestion without any link to nasal allergies or other infections. Some researchers believe this congestion of the nasal membranes is related to the increase in estrogen and blood flow.

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Be Cautious When Seeking Treatment

Many women use non-prescription, over-the-counter decongestant sprays to open up their nasal passages. Know that these medicines dont work for pregnancy rhinitis. These medicines may give you temporary relief. However, they may actually make your symptoms worse and lead to a complete nasal blockage.

How can you get relief from pregnancy rhinitis? Experts say you can breathe easy with these measures:

• Dont use OTC nasal decongestants.

• Drink plenty of fluids.

• Increase the humidity levels in your home. Use a humidifier.

• Dont use nasal irritants, such as cigarette smoke.

• Get moving. Regular, moderate-intensity exercise can reduce congestion. It can also help you sleep better. But first, check with your healthcare provider to see what exercises are safe for you.

• When you go to sleep, raise the head of your bed. For instance, use an extra pillow or a wedge.

• Ask your healthcare provider about using OTC nasal strips and saline sprays or drops.

The good news? Even if you dont do anything, you can expect your stuffy nose to clear up soon after your baby is born. It often goes away within two weeks of childbirth.

Online Medical Reviewer: Bowers, Nancy, RN, BSN, MPH Foley, Maryann, RN, BSN

Date Last Reviewed: 4/12/2016

Medications To Avoid During Pregnancy

Always check with your doctor or OBGYN before taking any medications prescription, over-the-counter, or homeopathic particularly the following.

• Pain relievers and fever reducers like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can cause pregnancy complications, particularly if taken during the third trimester.
• Avoid non-steroidal nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline.
• Dont take supplemental vitamins or herbal remedies without medical approval.

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What Causes Pregnancy Rhinitis

The exact cause of pregnancy remains unknown. However, research suggests that the increase in blood volume that occurs due to pregnancy may be a contributing factor. Fluctuations in hormones — such as , , hormone, and — may also play a role, as they can lead to inflammation and swelling of the nasal mucous membranes. Inflamed mucous membranes may result in increased to the nasal passages and consequent enlargement of the nasal , leading to nasal congestion.

Other potential risk factors for pregnancy rhinitis may include smoking or having chronic rhinitis before pregnancy. Pregnancy rhinitis is typically diagnosed by a medical professional after ruling out other causes of nasal congestion or irritation, such as , viral or bacterial infections, or any other respiratory disorders during pregnancy.

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When To Seek Medical Care

See a doctor if you have:

• Severe symptoms, such as severe headache or facial pain.
• Symptoms that get worse after improving.
• Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without getting better.
• Fever longer than 3-4 days.

You should also seek medical care if you have had multiple sinus infections in the past year.

This list is not all-inclusive. Please see a doctor for any symptom that is severe or concerning.

Other conditions can cause symptoms similar to a sinus infection, including:

• Seasonal allergies

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What Are The Most Important Facts To Know About Pregnancy Rhinitis

Pregnancy refers to an inflammation of the tissues lining the nasal passages in pregnant individuals. Although pregnancy rhinitis may occur at any time during pregnancy, it typically presents in the beginning of pregnancy, at the end, or at both stages. Symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis may last for 6 weeks, with complete resolution of symptoms within 2 weeks after delivery. The exact cause of pregnancy rhinitis remains unclear however, factors may include increased , hormonal fluctuations, and other risk factors, such as pre-existing rhinitis or smoking. Signs and symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis often include a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, and increased ear pressure. Complications of pregnancy rhinitis may involve infections and worsening of preexisting . Treatment of pregnancy rhinitis can include avoiding and irritants, using non-medicated saline sprays, and, under the direction of a medical professional, taking specific medication that is safe for use during pregnancy or while .

What Are The Symptoms Of Sinusitis During Pregnancy

Sinusitis is quite common and can be even more so during pregnancy. Around 20% of pregnant women suffer from sinusitis.

The tricky thing about dealing with sinusitis during pregnancy is figuring out whether your symptoms are pregnancy-related or are sinus issues. In addition to all the other parts of your body that it affects, your pregnancy can also make you more prone to nasal inflammation.

If youre pregnant and suffering from the following symptoms, you may be suffering from sinusitis:

• Yellow or greenish discharge from your nose
• Difficulty breathing through your nose
• Pain and pressure around your face, especially around the cheeks and eyes

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Home Remedies For Cold And Flu During Pregnancy

• saline nasal drops and sprays to loosen nasal mucus and soothe inflamed nasal tissue
• breathing warm, humid air to help ease congestion a facial steamer, hot-mist vaporizer, or even a hot shower can work
• chicken soup to help relieve inflammation and soothe congestion
• adding honey or lemon to a warm cup of decaffeinated tea to relieve a sore throat
• using hot and cold packs to alleviate sinus pain

Is Sinus Pressure Normal In Pregnancy

If you are expecting, you may have a stuffy nose that does not go away. This is referred to as pregnancy rhinitis. What is the cause of this condition? However, it is possible that hormonal changes are to blame.

How To Massage Your Ears For Sinus Pressure Relief

There are numerous ways to massage your ears to relieve sinus pressure. Press down on your cheekbones and jaw with your index and middle fingers. Begin by moving your fingers in a circular motion toward your ears. A deeper massage can be performed using your thumbs instead of your fingers. This should take 30 seconds to a minute to complete. Massage your ears for 30 seconds to a minute twice a day to help relieve sinus pressure and improve your overall health.

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Make The Sinus Pain And Mind

âTechniques that take advantage of the mind-body connection, such as deep breathing practices and relaxation exercises, can be very effective for relieving sinus pain,â notes Das. These practices rely on the mindâs ability to influence pain perception and are especially helpful with chronic or recurrent pain that is often seen with sinus pressure. Some examples include biofeedback, meditation, yoga, and hypnotherapy.

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Do Humidifiers Help With Sinus Pressure

Dryness in your sinus passages can cause and worsen sinus pressure. Humidifiers and vaporizers help resolve this by adding moisture to the air you breathe in, creating a more humid environment in your nose and sinuses. This can be especially helpful during winter months or if you live in a dry climate.

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