Asthma During Pregnancy

Asthma During Pregnancy

Asthma During PregnancyWhether you were diagnosed with asthma before becoming pregnant or you developed this respiratory condition during your pregnancy, you must get the treatment you need from an asthma specialist. After all, this reduction in oxygen doesn’t just impact your health but also the health of the fetus. Some women who had asthma before pregnancy report an improvement in their symptoms while others notice that symptoms worsen. It’s important to let your asthma specialist know about any changes in severity and/or frequency of your asthma symptoms while pregnant.
 
What are the signs?
You could have asthma if you experience any of these symptoms,
  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing
  • A persistent cough that may be worse at night or first thing in the morning
  • Chest tightness
  • Feeling like you can’t get a full breath
What triggers asthma?
Several things could trigger asthma. Common triggers include,
  • Allergies (e.g., pet dander; mold; pollen)
  • Environmental irritants (e.g., fireplaces; cold air; cigarette smoke)
  • Respiratory infections (e.g., cold; flu; pneumonia)
  • Exercise
  • Stress
How is asthma treated?
If you had asthma before pregnancy then your asthma specialist has already provided you with a customized treatment plan and medications; however, if this is the first time you’ve been diagnosed with asthma and it’s during pregnancy you must see an asthma specialist right away. Untreated or uncontrollable asthma during pregnancy can increase your risk for preeclampsia, premature birth, and low birth weight. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of asthma during your pregnancy, you must seek proper medical attention.
 
It’s also important that you talk with your doctor if you notice your asthma worsening during pregnancy. If you were taking any medication before getting pregnant you must continue to take your medication as prescribed and talk with your doctor first about whether or not to stop taking it. Women that are pregnant are not ideal candidates for allergy shots and will need to wait before getting immunotherapy; however, if you were getting them before you got pregnant you can continue with the rest of your treatment.
 
If you are concerned about controlling your asthma during pregnancy, talk with an allergist and asthma doctor today. We can revamp your current asthma action plan to accommodate your health and the health of your unborn baby.
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