I Can't Breathe!

bradleerick-2

Is anyone else suffering from nasal swelling? The inside of my nose gets so swollen shut that I can't breathe!

I have chronic sinus/allergy issues and did not think for a minute that pregnancy would affect them, but MAN! It started will a sinus infection back in June and I was on Levaquin for 10 days (6/9- 6/18). I started to feel better, but after the antibiotic run, I started to get the annoying congestion, draining, etc. It got to the point last week when I had to start taking sudafed and claritin because that's what the OBGYN said were safe for congestion issues. I called my family practice and they said that Afrin (for short periods) was safe. After countless nights of very little sleep, I really started searching the web about this and learned that this is fairly common for pregnant women. Apparently, the increased hormone levels cause swelling everywhere, including your nasal membranes. Because I had sinus issues and swelling before, pregnancy has exacerbated the problem.

I've tried natural methods: saline sprays, Neti pot (I can't get ANY solution to flow through my nose), hot steam. It seems the only thing that gives temporary (~10 hr relief) is the Afrin/Oxymetazoline nasal spray.

If I am the only one experiencing this, I'm going to be super happy because I wouldn't wish this suffocation on anyone. However, if you have a solution, I WILL LOVE YOU FOREVER.

I can't wait to see our babylove next Thursday and be reminded that this is just temporary and SOOOO worth it!!

Burrberrymum

I never had allergies in my life until my very first pregnancy. It brought it on, it was horrid! The OB said it had nothing to do with pregnancy but I beg to differ... 

After my second pregnancy (soon after loss of pregnancy #1) they still never went away! They've been horrible!! I haven't had an apt yet and no family doctor so I have no idea how to control it at this point, because I was taking Reactine prescription and Otrivin nasal spray which works like a charm... but all that was to say I completely feel you, it's horrible, I buy the 12 packs of Kleenex boxes that last me most the month if I'm lucky. 

bradleerick-2

Ugh! I am so sorry, @Burrberrymum! Maybe the saline rinses would work for you?

Burrberrymum

Bradleerick said:

Ugh! I am so sorry, @Burrberrymum! Maybe the saline rinses would work for you?

I will definitely give it a try! Using a humidifier usually helps for short periods as well.

kelizr

Me!!! I had it with my first pregnancy, but not the second. Now, it's in full force and all I want are my nasal sprays and D allergy meds!! I'm wondering if doing sinus rinse would help, but haven't tried....

mtmama2

Me too!!! I have had allergy/sinus problems my whole adult life and I had no idea that pregnancy exacerbated the problem until I got pregnant. Not a fun surprise. I have been taking my Zyrtec every day and I also do the NeilMed sinus rinses, which help but it is still crazy how pregnancy can affect so many other things!

ShaunaT25

A gross post nasal drip cough has accompanied both of my pregnancies. It's been horrible. My entire nasal passage way is swollen and producing more mucous than anyone would enjoy. 

MollyandD

I've been putting Vicks in my nose every night to help me breath. It's only a problem for me when I lay down. 

bradleerick-2

@MollyandD I'm going to try this! It can't hurt. Thanks!
So sorry all of you ladies are struggling with this as well

bradleerick-2

@kelizr I'm glad to hear that you had a pregnancy without the congestion issues. It gives me hope for future blessings! The sinus rinses don't help me much, but FX it works for you!!

RunBooRun

Local raw honey can help. Because its made by local bees, it has small amounts of the local pollen in it and helps your body learn to deal with it.

I was very skeptical at first, but I tried it and it really works. I put a tablespoon in my coffee instead of sugar.

MollyandD

Good news, it'll resolve itself... 2-3 weeks after we give birth. I guess I'll be using my Neti Pot and Vick a lot more often. 

https://newparent.com/mom/how-to-manage-swollen-sinuses-while-pregnant

smevan11

My nose/sinuses were swollen with my first. It was awful. I'm really hoping to avoid it this time around.