Sinus infection during pregnancy
Sinus pressure,
stuffy nose and sore throat? Welcome to sinusitis during pregnancy. Sinusitis
during pregnancy at the same time exacerbate the course of the disease.
Sinusitis occurs when
there is an infection in the lining of one of the four nasal cavities, which
can cause inflammation and nasal congestion that prevents mucus from draining
properly. This can lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion and painful
pressure around the cheeks and eyes. These infections can be caused by
bacteria, viruses, or fungi, although cold is the most common contributing
factor to sinus infections.
If you have a sinus
infection during pregnancy, you may be tempted to take medication for a quick
fix. However, while some medications are safe to use during pregnancy, other
commonly used medications may not be safe to take during pregnancy. You may
also find that some home remedies can be just as effective in relieving
symptoms and making your recovery easier.
Medication
Short-term use of decongestants,
antihistamines, expectorants, and cough suppressants for upper respiratory
infections is generally considered safe during pregnancy in limited amounts.
However, you will
need to avoid taking aspirin and ibuprofen.
You can talk to your
doctor for specific information about which medications pose the least risk to
you and your baby. In general, while there are safe medications that can be
taken during pregnancy, it is best to limit their use during pregnancy and opt
for other safer medications.
Home remedies
Humidifiers are a
good home remedy for sinus infections
There are many safe
home remedies you can use to help relieve symptoms and treat a sinus infection:
- Drink plenty of fluids such as water, broth and citrus
juice. It's important to
stay hydrated to help you fight infections and clear a stuffy nose.
- Use a saline nasal rinse or saline nasal drops. You can make your own salt drops by mixing
1 cup warm water with 1/8 teaspoon salt and a small pinch of baking soda.
- Use a humidifier at night. This will help clear the nasal passages. You can also
lean over a pot of boiling water removed from the heat, cover your head with a
towel, and inhale the steam. This helps open the nasal passages and release
mucus from the chest.
- Elevating the head with a few pillows while lying down
can make breathing easier.
The use of nasal strips also helps to open up the nasal passages.
- For sore throats, gargle with salt water, drink warm liquids, or suck on ice. Honey and lemon can also soothe a sore throat.
- Make sure you get enough sleep as this will help your immune system fight infection.
- During pregnancy, appetite often disappears, and feeling unwell may not help. However, even if you don't have an appetite, it's important to eat well. If you are losing your appetite, it may help to eat small meals throughout the day. Be sure to eat nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables. Soup can also be a sedative.
For headaches:
- Use hot or cold compresses on the shoulders or neck, or a cold compress on the forehead.
- Massage or a warm bath can also relieve headaches.
When to see a doctor
- If you are coughing up green or yellow mucus
- If you have a fever above 38.3° C
- If you cannot eat or sleep
If your infection does not improve, your doctor may prescribe medication. Your doctor will determine the best medicine that is safe for you and your baby. Although a sinus infection is not fun, there are ways to take care of yourself with medications or home remedies that will ease your symptoms and help you get better.