Pregnancy brings about physiological changes, and for many individuals, this includes a shift in allergy symptoms. The body’s immune system and hormonal balance undergo significant adjustments, influencing how it reacts to allergens. These changes can result in varied experiences, with some individuals noticing their allergies worsen, others finding improvement, and some developing new allergic responses.
How Pregnancy Influences Allergic Responses
Pregnancy significantly alters a person’s immune system and hormonal landscape, directly affecting allergic reactions. The immune system shifts towards a T-helper 2 (Th2) response to prevent the mother’s body from rejecting the developing fetus. This Th2 dominance, while crucial for maintaining pregnancy, can sometimes heighten allergic tendencies, as IgE antibody production, associated with allergies, is part of this pathway.
Hormonal fluctuations, particularly increases in estrogen and progesterone, also play a role. These hormones can influence mast cells, which are involved in allergic reactions, potentially leading to increased sensitivity or a worsening of symptoms. Some pregnant individuals might experience an exacerbation of pre-existing allergies, while others may find their symptoms unexpectedly improve. New allergies can also emerge during pregnancy due to these significant shifts.
Differentiating Pregnancy Symptoms from Allergic Reactions
Pregnancy symptoms can mimic allergic reactions. One prevalent condition is “rhinitis of pregnancy,” which involves nasal congestion, a runny nose, and sneezing. Unlike allergic rhinitis, pregnancy rhinitis is primarily caused by hormonal changes, particularly increased estrogen, leading to swelling of the nasal mucous membranes and increased blood flow to the sinuses.
Allergy symptoms typically involve triggers and often subside once the trigger is removed. They can also include itchy or watery eyes, which are less characteristic of pregnancy rhinitis. Pregnancy rhinitis is not a true allergy and usually resolves within two weeks after delivery. Consulting a healthcare provider can help clarify whether symptoms are allergy-related or due to pregnancy itself.
Managing Allergies Safely During Pregnancy
Managing allergy symptoms safely during pregnancy often begins with non-pharmacological approaches to minimize allergen exposure. Avoiding known triggers, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, is a primary step. This can involve keeping windows closed, using air conditioning, maintaining humidity levels below 50% indoors to deter mold and dust mites, and regular cleaning like vacuuming with a HEPA filter and washing bedding in hot water.
When non-pharmacological methods are insufficient, certain medications are considered safe for use during pregnancy, though consultation with a healthcare provider is always recommended. Nasal saline rinses or sprays and neti pots are effective for clearing nasal passages. Some oral antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), are generally considered safe during pregnancy, particularly after the first trimester. Nasal corticosteroid sprays like budesonide (Rhinocort), fluticasone (Flonase), and mometasone (Nasonex) are often recommended for persistent symptoms. However, certain decongestants, especially oral forms in the first trimester, and some nasal sprays like triamcinolone (Nasacort) should be avoided. If a pregnant individual was already receiving allergy shots (immunotherapy) before pregnancy, continuing them under medical supervision is generally safe, but starting new immunotherapy during pregnancy is not advised due to anaphylaxis.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Pregnant individuals experiencing allergy symptoms should consult a healthcare provider for advice and safe treatment plans. This is particularly true if symptoms are severe, unmanageable, or cause significant discomfort. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, chest tightness, or signs of a severe allergic reaction.
Professional guidance is also recommended before taking any over-the-counter medications or if there are concerns about medication safety. A doctor can help differentiate between allergy symptoms and other pregnancy-related conditions, ensuring appropriate and safe management for both the pregnant individual and the baby.