Pregnancy is a journey full of anticipation and change in a woman's life, but the accompanying physiological changes can also bring unexpected challenges, including pregnancy rhinitis. Many expectant mothers experience sudden onset of symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing during pregnancy, impacting their quality of life and raising concerns about the effects of medication on the fetus. This article will systematically analyze the causes of pregnancy rhinitis and provide scientific and safe relief strategies to help expectant mothers easily cope with nasal discomfort during this special period.
Causes of Pregnancy Rhinitis
Pregnancy rhinitis is not a common cold or allergy; it is a physiological phenomenon unique to pregnancy. Its core cause is closely related to hormonal fluctuations and immune system adjustments:
Surge in Estrogen Levels
During pregnancy, estrogen secretion is over 10 times higher than normal. This hormone stimulates the dilation of blood vessels in the nasal mucosa, leading to congestion and swelling of the mucosa, which in turn causes nasal congestion and runny nose. Estrogen also increases the nasal sensitivity to irritants, making expectant mothers more susceptible to sneezing triggered by cold air, dust, and other factors.
Progesterone's "Relaxing Effect"
Progesterone relaxes smooth muscles throughout the body, including the smooth muscles of the blood vessels in the nasal cavity. This dilation of blood vessels increases nasal secretions, resulting in a runny nose. Furthermore, progesterone may weaken the defenses of the nasal mucosa, increasing the risk of infection.
Immune System Adjustment
To prevent the fetus from being rejected by the mother's immune system, the immune system is relatively suppressed during pregnancy. This adjustment may reduce the nasal cavity's resistance to viruses and bacteria, making it more susceptible to inflammatory rhinitis (such as sinusitis).
Increased Blood Volume
During pregnancy, blood volume increases by 40%-50% compared to pre-pregnancy levels. More blood flows through the nasal mucosa, further exacerbating congestion and increased secretions.
Five Scientific Methods to Relieve Rhinitis During Pregnancy
Although rhinitis during pregnancy cannot be completely avoided, non-drug methods can significantly alleviate symptoms and are safe for the fetus:
Nasal Saline Rinse
How it works: Using warm saline (0.9% sodium chloride) to rinse the nasal cavity removes allergens, secretions, and bacteria, and reduces mucosal swelling.
How to use: Use a nasal rinser or syringe 1-2 times daily, tilting your head forward while rinsing to avoid choking.
Advantages: This is drug-free and suitable for use throughout pregnancy.
Steam Inhalation and Humidification
How to use: Apply a hot towel to the nose or pour hot water into a basin and inhale steam for 5-10 minutes. This will soften nasal secretions and relieve nasal congestion.
Humidifier: Maintain indoor humidity between 40% and 60% to avoid dry air irritating the nasal mucosa.
Note: The steam temperature should not be too high to avoid burns.
Adjust your sleeping position and pillow height
Sleeping on your side: Sleeping on your left side can reduce pressure from the uterus on the inferior vena cava, improve nasal circulation, and relieve nasal congestion.
Elevate your head: Use a pillow to elevate your head 15-30 degrees to prevent nasal secretions from flowing back into the throat, reducing coughing and sore throat.
Dietary adjustments and nutritional supplements
Avoid irritants: Reduce spicy and greasy foods, and avoid caffeine and alcohol (which may worsen mucosal congestion).
Supplement vitamin C: Citrus fruits, kiwis, and other foods are rich in vitamin C, which can enhance blood vessel elasticity and reduce mucosal edema.
Drink plenty of water: Drink 1.5-2 liters of water daily to keep mucous membranes moist and dilute secretions.
When should I see a doctor? Be alert to signs of complications
The following symptoms may indicate rhinitis with concurrent infection or other complications, and prompt medical attention is needed:
Yellow-green or blood-tinged nasal discharge persisting for more than a week;
Accompanied by fever, headache, and facial tenderness (possibly sinusitis);
Severe nasal congestion leading to difficulty breathing or sleep apnea;
Aggravation of pre-existing allergic symptoms (such as asthma).
While rhinitis during pregnancy can be uncomfortable, it is a natural physiological change that occurs as the mother adapts to the growing fetus. By understanding its causes, adopting non-drug relief measures, and maintaining communication with their doctor, expectant mothers can easily cope with this challenge. Remember, prenatal health management isn't just about "one person feeding two," it's about "one person adjusting, two people benefiting." May every expectant mother welcome the arrival of a new life with peace of mind and good health!
