Allergic rhinitis in pregnancy

Sneezing, an itchy or runny nose, congestion and watery eyes may reflect allergy, while pregnancy-related swelling inside the nose can add to blockage. Allergic rhinitis does not directly harm the pregnancy, but persistent congestion can disturb sleep and daily comfort.

Allergic rhinitis is an immune response to triggers such as pollen, dust mites, mould or animal dander. Pregnancy can also increase blood flow and swelling in the nasal lining, causing congestion without the itching and repeated sneezing that often accompany allergy.

Noticing where and when symptoms occur can help separate a trigger-related pattern from more constant pregnancy congestion. Facial pain, fever or thick discharge may point to another cause and deserve assessment.

Reduce exposure where practical: keep windows closed when outdoor allergens are troublesome, shower after being outside, wash bedding regularly and avoid smoke or strong fragrances. A sterile saline nasal spray or rinse can clear allergens and loosen mucus; use prepared saline or water that has been made safe for nasal rinsing.

Before starting, stopping or switching an antihistamine, decongestant or medicated nasal spray, check with a clinician or pharmacist who knows you are pregnant. They can consider the stage of pregnancy, symptom severity, other medicines and whether a locally acting nasal treatment is suitable.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms prevent sleep, persist despite trigger avoidance, or are accompanied by facial pressure, fever, ear pain, a worsening cough or wheeze. These features can require a check for sinus, ear or breathing problems.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, severe wheezing, swelling of the lips or tongue, faintness, or rapidly developing widespread hives. Those signs can occur with a serious allergic reaction and should not be managed as ordinary hay fever.

Ask whether your pattern fits allergy, pregnancy-related nasal congestion or an infection; which non-medicine measures suit you; and which nasal spray or antihistamine is appropriate at your stage of pregnancy. Bring a list of prescribed, pharmacy and herbal products so possible duplication or interactions can be checked.