Causes of asthma in pregnancy

Pregnancy can alter breathing sensations, nasal congestion and the way the airways respond to triggers. A person may already have asthma, develop symptoms for the first time, or notice a different pattern during pregnancy. Allergic Rhinitis and House Dust Mite Allergy can accompany an allergic airway pattern. Viral infections, smoke, strong scents, dust, workplace exposures and cold air may also provoke narrowing. Cough, Wheezing and Chest Tightness can be asthma symptoms, but breathlessness in pregnancy has other possible causes, so diagnosis should not rely on symptoms alone.

Tell your maternity or primary-care team about any new cough, wheeze, chest tightness or reduced exercise tolerance. Continue prescribed asthma treatment unless the clinician caring for you advises a change; uncontrolled breathing problems can also be harmful. Keep away from smoke and known irritants, and record exposure, timing and response to treatment. A clinician can review inhaler technique, check breathing and create a plan for worsening symptoms. Do not start or stop medicines, including non-prescription products, without checking their suitability in pregnancy.

Get urgent help for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, difficulty speaking, blue lips, faintness, marked exhaustion, or symptoms that do not improve with your prescribed reliever plan. Seek prompt advice for a new or persistent cough, wheeze or chest tightness during pregnancy. A Nebuliser Treatment may be given by clinicians during a significant flare, but urgent assessment is needed to identify the cause and monitor both parent and baby. Do not attribute sudden severe breathlessness to pregnancy alone.

Could my symptoms be asthma, allergy or another pregnancy-related problem? Are my inhalers and action plan suitable for this stage of pregnancy? Which warning signs should prompt urgent review?