Allergic Rhinitis and Pregnancy
The symptoms of allergic rhinitis may be worse if you are pregnant.
Although you and your developing baby (fetus) are not
in danger, allergic rhinitis can lead to asthma and
sinusitis getting worse. It is important to discuss this with your
doctor, as some medicines might be better for you and your baby than
others.
- If possible, do not use medicines during the
first 3 months of your pregnancy. If you feel you need the medicine, talk to
your doctor.
- To treat nasal congestion, try using a saline spray or
raising the head of your bed.
The U.S. National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)
recommends the following for allergies during pregnancy:1
- Inhaled corticosteroids at recommended doses are
effective and can be used by pregnant women.
- The antihistamines
loratadine or cetirizine are recommended.
- If you are already
taking allergy shots, you may continue getting them, but starting allergy shots
during pregnancy is not recommended.
- Talk to your doctor about
using decongestants you take by mouth (oral decongestants). There may be better
treatment options.
Citations
- National Asthma Education and Prevention Program
(2005). Quick Reference From the Working Group Report on Managing Asthma During Pregnancy: Recommendations for Pharmacologic Treatment Update 2004 (NIH Publication No. 05-5246). Available online:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/prof/lung/asthma/astpreg_qr.htm.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
|---|
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
|---|
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Rohit K Katial, MD - Allergy and Immunology |
|---|
| Last Revised | June 30, 2011 |
|---|
Last Revised:
June 30, 2011
National Asthma Education and Prevention Program
(2005). Quick Reference From the Working Group Report on Managing Asthma During Pregnancy: Recommendations for Pharmacologic Treatment Update 2004 (NIH Publication No. 05-5246). Available online:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/prof/lung/asthma/astpreg_qr.htm.
