Asthma in pregnancy
By: Tsou JinyeuTotal Views: 158, Word Count: 568,
Asthma is a disease of the respiratory system where the respiratory tract is more sensitive than normal to a variety of substances in the environment such as dust, smoke or pollens or substances such as strong fragrances, medicines or chemicals. These substances to which a person is allergic are called allergens.
Symptoms include breathlessness with or without sneezing, chest heaviness and sleep disturbances due to cough or breathing difficulties. Nasal symptoms include, running nose, itching, sneezing and nasal blockage. Repeated episodes of breathlessness in patients could lead to oxygen breathlessness.
Asthma affects about 7-8 percent of women. During pregnancy the hormonal changes affects the respiratory tracts and can change the severity of asthma. During labor very few women report symptoms of asthma and only few may require treatment. It gets better during pregnancy depending upon the severity of asthma. After delivery, however the severity of asthma goes back to the pre-pregnancy state.
However, uncontrolled asthma symptoms can affect the fetus because an asthma attack can decrease the amount of oxygen in the blood which in return your fetus may not get enough of oxygen. It is important to maintain normal levels of oxygen for the proper growth of your baby. Hence if you had asthma before your pregnancy, then it is important to take proper measure while you are pregnant. Speak to your doctor about pregnancy safe medications for asthma.
Other tips that can help control asthma symptoms are:
- Air out damp and humid areas regularly. Use a de-humidifier to keep humidity between 25-50 per cent. Preferably use air conditioners.
- Clean bathrooms regularly to get rid of mold and use products that will kill and prevent mold.
- Use exhaust fans to expel steam from the house.
- Limit your outdoor activities during high pollen period, such as early in the mornings.
- Stay indoors during windy and humid days when pollen counts are high and keep the windows closed during pollen season.
- Encase pillows and mattresses with allergen proof, zippered pillow covers and bed sheets. Wash all bedding on a regular basis.
- Non-carpeted flooring is the best for asthma patients. If you cannot get rid of the carpet then ensure that you vacuum it daily with a multi-layer, allergen proof vacuum bag.
- Avoid curtain and drapes. Washable curtains should be washed frequently.
- Dust all surfaces with a damp cloth often, including lamp shades and windowsills.
- Keep your home tidy.
- Replace traditional stuffed animals with washable stuffed toys.
- You must ensure that filters of heaters and air conditioners are changed frequently.
- Try not to keep a pet. Avoid going for longs visits to friends and family who own pets.
- Take care of your health and try to stay away from infections such as colds, sinus and flu as these may increase the symptoms of asthma.
- Strong fragrances such as perfumes, deodorants, paints and sprays should be avoided.
These are some preventive measures that can control an asthma attack during your pregnancy. Ask your family members to co-operate in order for you to have a smooth pregnancy.
About the Author
Dr Tsou Jinyeu is a well known gynecologist and has been in this field since 1995. His special interests are – genetic and birth defects, high risk obstetrics, lupus in pregnancy, premature labour, premature delivery, triplets and ultrasound diagnosis. He is graduated from the University Of Illinois College Of Medicine. Nowdays he is working as a medical doctor at Elmhurst Loyola Center for Health.
Advice Rating: Not yet rated
Login to vote