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Are allergies during pregnancy can harm the baby

When pregnant, suddenly feel more frequent sneezing or nasal congestion? Maybe pregnant women have allergies. Which is then feared, whether these conditions can affect the condition of the baby in the womb? Allergies occur when the body's immune system reacts to certain ingredients that the body deems harmful (allergens), even though it is actually not certain. Immune (antibodies) then work to fight it by releasing chemicals in the body, causing allergic reactions. Usually allergies occur due to heredity and environmental factors. Actually one in five pregnant women experience allergies. So if pregnant women experience allergies, it is actually a relatively normal thing. For that, pregnant women should recognize allergies that might occur, as well as safe ways to deal with allergies.

Differentiating Symptoms of Allergies

Let's look at what are the symptoms of allergies. Symptoms of allergies in pregnant women are actually the same as those experienced by people in general, namely sneezing, headaches, coughing, nasal congestion, itchy throat, rashes and watery eyes. Symptoms that are sometimes common may make you confused, whether including allergies or other conditions that often accompany pregnancy. Allergies will appear when the body is exposed to the trigger, either inedible, inhaled, or touched. Usually allergy symptoms subside after the trigger is gone or no more. Pregnant women do not need to worry, allergies as a reaction to the immune system generally do not endanger the health of pregnant women and babies in the womb. Even so, pregnant women also still need to be aware of the possibility of a severe allergic reaction, namely anaphylactic shock. To ensure the allergy and treatment needed, the doctor can do a history of complaints, then recommend blood tests and maybe some other additional tests. For example, when pregnant women feel shortness of breath, doctors can recommend breathing tests or spirometry, to assess lung performance.

How to Overcome Allergies During Pregnancy

If allergies occur continuously or often recur, pregnant women should see a doctor. Your doctor may recommend treatment without medication if the allergy symptoms that a pregnant woman experiences are not too severe. But if it is very disturbing, for example to interfere with sleep or daily activities, the doctor will provide treatment for allergies, which is safe for pregnant women. So, if pregnant women experience allergies, do not take any drugs, avoid using drugs outside of the doctor's advice. What also needs to watch out for is pregnant women with asthma who have allergies. Triggering factors are generally strong odors, cold air, exercise, lung irritation, or cigarette smoke. Asthma needs to be treated immediately because if pregnant women do not get enough air, then the baby will experience the same condition. The good news, most asthma drugs are not dangerous for pregnant women. Generally doctors prioritize inhalation medicine, because it is considered safer for the baby in the womb.

Tips on Preventing Allergies in Pregnant Pregnant Women

To prevent allergies, pregnant women certainly need to avoid the ingredients that cause it. Here are some things you can do to avoid allergies:
  • Pay attention and avoid the types of foods that are suspected to cause allergic reactions, and keep food storage well.
  • Skin and hair can carry allergens from outside the home. We recommend that after returning from traveling, pregnant women immediately take a shower and wash their hair to get rid of allergens.
  • Change your clothes after traveling, because clothes can also be allergens.
  • Clean the house regularly. Pay special attention to mattresses and carpets, use a vacuum cleaner if necessary.
  • It's a good idea to keep your pet clean, and place it outdoors during pregnancy.
Now, with the right treatment, pregnant women now do not need to fret anymore if you have allergies. Take precautions by avoiding allergy triggering factors, then consult with your doctor to get the right treatment when allergies are getting annoying.

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