A stuffy nose during pregnancy is common. Called pregnancy rhinitis, this condition is similar to cold-like nasal congestion but caused in part by hormonal changes. About 30% of pregnant women are affected1 and seek nasal congestion relief in one form or another.
As estrogen levels rise, the lining of the nasal passages can swell. More mucus is produced as a result. Also, the small blood vessels in the nose swell as blood circulation increases, which can trigger congestion. A stuffy nose during pregnancy can start at any point, from the second month on, and it tends to worsen at later stages of pregnancy. After delivery, it typically eases up and disappears within two weeks.
It is important to care for pregnancy rhinitis. Although the condition itself isn’t dangerous, it can affect your quality of life and, according to studies, have an indirect impact on fetal development.
Pinpointing the Source of Congestion
The typical symptoms are congestion and runny nose. Be on the lookout for signs of sinus infections, which are also common in pregnant women. A headache, fever, pain or pressure, aching jaw, or green or yellow mucus can indicate sinusitis. If other symptoms are present, such as sneezing and coughing, sore throat, and swollen glands, a cold or another infection may be the culprit.
Allergies are possible, as well. A stuffy, runny nose, along with watery mucus and itchy eyes and throat can mean you are more sensitive than usual to allergens.
Treating Pregnancy Rhinitis
The problem doesn’t usually require medical treatment. Besides, it is often not recommended to take medications while pregnant, especially during the first trimester. While decongestants may be okay later on, depending on your healthcare provider’s advice, there are various ways to treat the symptoms. You can ease the congestion by:
- Drinking fluids to stay hydrated
- Keeping your head elevated during sleep
- Using saline drops or nasal sprays
- Avoiding irritants that trigger symptoms
- Moisturizing your bedroom with a humidifier or vaporizer
- Applying a warm washcloth to your face
- Taking a warm, steamy shower
The last two methods represent an effective natural form of natural congestion relief. Heat is effective at relieving congestion because it loosens up the mucus and increases the blood supply. It is soothing to your nasal linings as well.
You can take advantage of heat for treating pregnancy rhinitis with the Sniff Relief self-heating face mask. The product unblocks sinuses, relieves pressure, and reduces other symptoms, such as a runny nose, naturally, by applying heat directly to the face. An adjustable strap and moldable nose bridge maximize comfort, while eight temperature settings allow you to find the most desirable level.
The settings are easily managed by an integrated controller. Plug in the cable, fit the mask snuggly on your head, and see relief in as little as 10 minutes, depending on how bad the congestion is. For more information on treating your stuffy nose during pregnancy and experiencing natural congestion relief, contact us online or order your Sniff Relief mask today.
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