Sinusitis during Pregnancy

It is common to get a sinus infection during any of the three trimesters of pregnancy. Sinuses are air-filled pockets around the face and nose area, and infection and inflammation in the lining of your sinuses cause this condition. A runny nose, ear infection, nasal congestion, and even fever, are some of the symptoms of the infection. Most often home remedies offer a good cure, but there may be instances when you would need prescribed medication to seek relief. Symptoms of sinusitis generally mimic those of allergies and a common cold. Chronic and acute infections can last up to 4 -12 weeks. Sinus infections could result due to a complication of common cold and allergies. Mucus could block the sinus cavities resulting in swelling and inflammation thereby leading to an infection.

What Is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is nothing but a sinus infection when your sinuses swell and inflamed with the mucus unable to drain out. It is quite a harrowing experience when you are not pregnant and does add to the woe if you are.

How Common Is a Sinus Infection or Sinusitis in Pregnancy?

Sinusitis is common during pregnancy, however, it is hard to distinguish if it is an actual infection or pregnancy-related. Pregnancy causes the blood vessels and membranes in the nose to swell causing difficulty in breathing even if you are not sick. It is important to consult a doctor to figure out what is causing it.

What Causes a Sinus Infection While Pregnant

Progesterone hormones result in the swelling of the sinuses which cause an infection. You could also contract sinusitis from viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. Allergies like rhinitis and hay fever could put you at an increased risk.

Signs and Symptoms of a Sinus Infection

Following are the signs of a sinus infection:

• Mucus drainage, yellow or greenish discharge from your nose
• Stuffed or blocked nose
• Pressure and pain around the face
• A bad cough
• A headache and fever
• Lack of sense of smell and taste
• A sore throat
  
  

Diagnosis and Test of Sinusitis

A nasal endoscopy will help your doctor determine the condition inside the nose, and if an allergy is suspected, you may need to undergo further tests too.

Can a Sinus Infection during Pregnancy Hurt the Baby

A sinus infection will not hurt your baby. But make sure you are taking enough vitamin supplements and maintaining a healthy diet to recover soon.

Sinusitis Treatment & Therapies in Pregnancy

1. Tylenol

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a sinus medicine that can be taken during pregnancy. It helps relieve a sinus headache and sore throat. However, it must be taken as directed and it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking it.

2. Aromatherapy

Put two drops of eucalyptus oil on a tissue and sniff to clear air passages. Alternatively, add it to a bowl of hot water and take the steam with a towel over your head.

3. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is stimulated with needles at certain points in your body to elevate symptoms and helps with stress and migraine headaches. It could be worth a try if you suffer from sinusitis headaches which are not very common.

4. Homoeopathy

There is no proven evidence that homoeopathy treats sinuses. However, you could try it from a registered, qualified homoeopath to get some relief.

Home Remedies for a Sinus Infection during Pregnancy

If you are not sure about taking medicines for a sinus infection during pregnancy, you can always opt for home remedies. Home remedies work well and the chances of any side-effects are also less. Try these home remedies to treat a sinus infection:

1. Warm compress

To get relief from a sinus headache during pregnancy, apply warm compress around your eyes and nose.

2. Water

Drink at least 8 glasses of water in a day to stay hydrated. Avoid hot beverages like tea and coffee as they could dehydrate you.

3. Eat Fruits and Vegetables

Mango is rich in Vitamin A. So, go for this fruit. Also, try to incorporate onions, garlic, and carrots in your daily diet. Garlic has antibiotic properties and helps relieve sinusitis.

4. Vegetable Juices

Carrot juice for breakfast is an effective remedy for sinuses. Juice of spinach, cucumber, and beetroot are also good measures.

5. Fenugreek Seeds

Boil fenugreek seeds in water and drink it 3-4 times a day.

6. Steam

Inhale steam from a tub or from a bowl of hot water. Humidifiers and nasal decongestants will also help. Taking steam twice a day will loosen the mucus and is a potent remedy.

7. Lemon Juice

Sip a concoction of fresh lemon squeezed in hot water throughout the day. Vitamin C in the lemon will strengthen your immune system and protect you from fever and cold.

8. Saltwater Solution

Saltwater can be dispensed into your nostrils with a dropper to rinse them. This solution will unclog the nostrils and give instant relief.

These aforementioned home remedies will help you recover naturally during pregnancy.

How Can You Prevent a Sinus Infection When Pregnant

Stay fit and healthy during pregnancy by eating well, avoiding contact with sick people, and evading environments with poor air quality. If you have a history of allergies, make sure you take proper care. A humidifier may also help in warding off any infections.

When to Contact a Doctor

Home remedies could treat sinuses, but there are times when you may need to see a doctor. A sinus headache during pregnancy could get worse and even sinus pain during pregnancy could lead to complications. Consult a doctor in the following conditions:

• If you don’t seem to make any progress with the OTC medications.
• If you have a fever higher than 101 degrees.
• If you cough up green or yellow mucus.
• If you are not able to eat properly.
• If you are unable to sleep peacefully.

Sinus infections are unpleasant, but there are many ways to fight the symptoms and recover soon. Stay hydrated and follow a healthy diet. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.