R.F. asks from Tecumseh, MI on August 04, 2009
12 Weeks Preg. W/severe Sinus Probs
I am 12.5 weeks pregnant w/baby #2, and having HORRIBLE sinus problems. Prior to getting pregnant I had a CT scan of my sinuses, as I've been having issues for my whole life, but primarily the last year. I haven't gotten the results back, as whatever is wrong I probably can't do anything about until after the baby is born anyway. I am planning on going in in a week or 2 anyway to find out, just to know. I have had 2 awful sinus infections since finding out I was preg., put on amoxicillin for both. Now that the infection is gone, my sinuses are still draining down my throat and my throat has been killing me for over 2 weeks. I know it must be an allergy issue, I just don't know what to do about it, since I don't like taking meds while preg. and not even sure what is safe to deal with this particular problem. I am wondering if anyone else has dealt with this issue while they were pregnant? I was completely healthy with my son, so this is new to me, and its so hard to work, take care of him, and enjoy this pregnancy when I constantly feel sick!
Featured Answers
K.V. answers from Grand Rapids on August 05, 2009
I spend most of being pregnant having a lot of problems breathing and sinus drainage due to allergies. I found Nasonex works the best for me but I think it's a category C drug. Rhinocort (which just happened not to work for me) is category B, tested and considered safe for pregnancy. I have found the nasal sprays work better than the Claritin D pills I took for many years.
More Answers
A.V. answers from Detroit on August 05, 2009
try a tablespoon of raw honey with a sprinkle of raw cinnamon i have tried this before and it realy seams to work. take it every 2 or 4 hours until you feel better and if that works just take it once every day you can get the honey at the flint farmers market for a good price hope this helps
1 mom found this helpful
D.M. answers from Detroit on August 05, 2009
Hi R.---I know you'll be needing something for short term relief, but has anyone ever suggested you use your diet to help your body resist and fight infection? An optimal diet will also help to balance your immune system so that these seasonal allergies won't bother you so much. Having said that, being pregnant does have an impact on all of the body.
I am taking a series of wellness classes taught by a naturopath who has her PhD in Nutrition. I can help you learn strategies that will most likely eliminate the need for prescription or even otc meds, using food as medicine. A couple of tips: your diet should consist primarily of fruits, veggies, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. Minimize the amount of animal protein that you eat, using it as a flavoring or condiment, like on a salad, soups or casseroles and stews. And I would eliminate cows milk, especially with mucous problems. Cows milk is formulated to make baby cows grow to big cows quickly. The proteins in cows milk are often allergenic in humans, and subtle, so it is difficult to diagnose. Go to www.strongbones.org to learn more.
Lots and lots of fruits and veggies will help you tremendously. If you have trouble eating the recommended 7 to 13 servings every day, I have a solution to share with you. Feel free to call me with any questions you might have. I am honored to share what I am learning with others. Our healthcare system is not set up for prevention. And there is much misinformation about what constitutes optimal health. If you are also interested in prevention...from colds to cancer or heart disease, give me a call. Good luck and I hope to talk with you soon. D. ###-###-####
1 mom found this helpful
D.H. answers from Detroit on August 05, 2009
R. ~
I'm an OB nurse, and we often tell patients that they can take sudafed for sinus problems. It's over-the-counter, but you have to sign for it at the pharmacy counter...get the generic, it's cheaper. Double-check with your OB that it's ok at your gestation, but I'm pretty sure it is.
The other writer is right in suggesting lots of water.
Also, have you thought about seeing a chiropractor? Maybe you're out of alignment. Or perhaps some accupressure would help.
good luck!
D.
S.S. answers from Detroit on August 05, 2009
What if I told you that I know of a natural solution that could make a huge benefit? Would you want to know more? I don't think it would be an issue for the baby either, but I could check if you want me to. I have struggled with sinus problems for years and it seams to be helping me.
S.
____@____.com
L.R. answers from Detroit on August 05, 2009
This is really not answering your question, but I have severe sinus problems too and have had them all my life. I used to get several sinus infections a year with at least one of them turning into bronchitis. Until I discovered Sinu-cleanse. It's a neti pot that you mix a saline mix in and use to rinse out your sinuses. It's a little unpleasant at first (kind of like you got water up your nose while swimming) but after a few times, it's no big deal. Now, when I feel even a hint of my sinuses starting to act up, I go do the sinu-cleanse. I have been sinus infection free for over 2 years now. (And, no, I don't work for the company. I actually heard about it on Oprah. She's a fan too.-Although, they should pay me to be there spokesperson!)
L.
A.H. answers from Detroit on August 05, 2009
One of the best non-medicine things that you can do is to do a sinus rinse every day. They sell either the Neti pot or just a large squirt bottle at most pharmacies. You use a saltwater rinse to clear out your sinus cavities.I have heard of a lot of success with this system. This is better than taking all the meds anyway even if you weren't pregnant. My husband has had a lot of problems with impacted sinuses and such, they found his problem was narrowed sinuses. You might want to ask them about this.Hope you feel better!!
R.W. answers from Jackson on August 04, 2009
It's really important to make sure you're drinking a lot of water. It will help thin the mucus out and make you more comfortable.
J.F. answers from Lansing on August 05, 2009
I would definitely consult with your OB. I had this problem with my first pregnancy and now again with this one (I'm 11 weeks). My wonderful Doc told me about Tylenol SEVERE Allergy and Tylenol SEVERE Congestion. They are the best of the products that are approved during pregnancy. Your doc may know of something even better for you; but these brought me much relief during a miserable time! Hope this helps
Email