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.
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.
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.
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.
Following are the signs of a sinus infection:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There is no proven evidence that homoeopathy treats sinuses. However, you could try it from a registered, qualified homoeopath to get some relief.
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:
To get relief from a sinus headache during pregnancy, apply warm compress around your eyes and nose.
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.
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.
Carrot juice for breakfast is an effective remedy for sinuses. Juice of spinach, cucumber, and beetroot are also good measures.
Boil fenugreek seeds in water and drink it 3-4 times a day.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.