Pregnancy rhinitis is also known as stuffy nose or nasal congestion during pregnancy. This condition can make it difficult to breathe comfortably and therefore cause sleep problems. Pregnancy rhinitis usually starts around the second month of pregnancy and gets worse as pregnancy progresses. However it  gets better right after your baby is delivered and goes away completely in a couple of weeks after delivery.

What causes pregnancy rhinitis ?

Increase in hormones such as estrogen during pregnancy is responsible for nasal congestion during pregnancy. This hormone causes the mucus membrane lining the nose to swell  and makes you to produce more mucus.

Increase in the amount of blood during pregnancy can also cause small blood vessels lining your nose to swell and cause congestion in the surrounding tissues.

What are the symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis ?

Stuffy nose during pregnancy is common in the first trimester and may get worse as pregnancy progresses. Some of the symptoms include the following :

• runny nose
• nasal congestion
• sneezing
• coughing
• headaches
• sinus pressure and congestion

NOTE : Sinus infection is different from pregnancy rhinitis. Sinusitis is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, headache, green or yellow mucus, facial pain and  decreased sense of smell. Contact  your doctor as soon as possible if you are experiencing  these signs.

How to manage pregnancy rhinitis .

The best treatment for pregnancy rhinitis is delivery of the baby. However these tips can relieve your symptoms.

• use over the counter saline nasal drops to help clear out mucus
• elevate your head using pillows when you sleep
• steam can be soothing and temporary relieve congestion. Take a warm shower or moisten a wash cloth with hot water and hold it to your face and breathe
• drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated
• use a humidifier to moisten the air and make breathing easier
• avoid environmental irritants such as chemical fumes or cigarette smoke as well as substances that trigger your symptoms
• moderate exercises can sometimes ease nasal congestion

Can I take medications for pregnancy rhinitis ?

Always contact your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy. If your symptoms get worse, you may contact your doctor who may suggest you try a decongestant.