Why Do Pregnant Women Experience Nasal Congestion and Runny Nose?

Pregnancy is a crucial period, and any physical changes in the female body can potentially impact the development of the fetus. Many pregnant women experience nasal congestion and a runny nose in their daily lives. Although these symptoms are not severe, they can be quite uncomfortable. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial to assess their severity and formulate an effective treatment plan. Let's explore the reasons for nasal congestion and a runny nose during pregnancy and discuss potential solutions.

Nasal congestion and a runny nose during pregnancy are typically caused by the common cold. Pregnant women are more susceptible to colds due to thickening, edema, and hyperemia of the respiratory mucosa in the nose, throat, and trachea, as well as decreased resistance to infection. However, pregnant women often hesitate to use medication for fear of adverse effects on the fetus, and they may not know how to properly care for themselves in the early stages of a cold, leading to a worsening of symptoms and even fever.

Here are some tips to manage nasal congestion and a runny nose during pregnancy:

1. Hot Water Vapor Inhalation: Fill a thermos with water around 50 degrees Celsius and place your nose and mouth over the opening to inhale the steam. This can effectively relieve nasal congestion and runny nose symptoms.
2. Drinking Chicken Soup: Chicken soup is nutritious and can boost the body's resistance to illness. It also has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Drinking chicken soup regularly can help alleviate cold symptoms while providing nutritional support.
3. Gargling with Salty Water: If you experience sore throat or itching during the early stages of a cold, gargle with salty water every ten minutes for several times. This can provide significant relief.
4. Acupressure: Warm a metal spoon by placing it in hot water and use it to massage the Tiger's Mouth acupoint (located between the thumb and index finger). Be careful not to let the spoon become too hot. Repeat this process, alternating between hot and cold spoons, to effectively relieve nasal congestion and runny nose.
5. Herbal Medicine: Although medication during pregnancy can have adverse effects on fetal development, prolonged untreated illness can also have serious consequences. When the aforementioned methods fail to provide relief, consult a doctor about using herbal remedies such as Banlangen, Shuanghuanglian, or Ganmao Tuire Chongji. These medications have minimal side effects and are generally considered safe for pregnant women.

By following these tips, pregnant women can effectively manage nasal congestion and a runny nose while minimizing any potential risks to their unborn child.