Is asthma during pregnancy normal?
Asthma is a common condition and affects 10% of pregnant women.
It is an episodic illness i.e. there will be episodes of attack interspersed with symptom-free time.
Asthma results from a complex and poorly defined interaction of genetic predisposition and environmental stimulation. The basic mechanism for nonspecific bronchial hyperresponsiveness is unknown.
Inflammation of the airways secondary to a trigger is the most common hypothesis.
What causes asthma during pregnancy?
Common triggers for the attack are:
- Pollens
- House Dust Mites
- Cigarette Smoke
- Wood Smoke
- Air Pollution
- Strong Odours (air fresheners)
- Occupational Dust
- Chemicals (paint smoke)
- Various medical conditions, like upper respiratory tract viral infections
- Sinusitis
- Oesophageal Reflux
- Worm Infestations
- Drugs Like Aspirin And Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs are known to trigger an attack.
- Emotional stress has also been implicated as an important trigger.
- It is important to have very good control of asthma during pregnancy as it can have adverse effects on the mother and fetus if it is not under control.
Does asthma improve during pregnancy?
Pregnancy by itself will not worsen or improve asthma. Patients who have mild disease may not have any change but those with severe disease may have a worsening of symptoms.
Is asthma harmful during pregnancy?
- Severe and/or poorly controlled asthma can lead to increased Blood Pressure in pregnancy.
- Preterm Labour
- Growth Restricted Babies
- Low Birth Weight Babies
- Higher Risk Of Caesarean Section.
- Asthma does not affect the labour and delivery and the postpartum period.
- Corticosteroids and beta-agonists drugs are used to control asthma.
What asthma medications are safe during pregnancy?
Corticosteroids are commonly prescribed. The inhaled preparations are very safe and effective in pregnancy. The oral and intramuscular preparation is used only during acute exacerbation and they should be used with caution for the long term. Inhaled Beta-agonists are effective and safe.
Are asthma attacks bad during pregnancy?
When an attack ensues then the patient should be taken to the emergency department for immediate management under the care of a pulmonologist
Timely intervention can minimize the effects on the foetus and prevent morbidity mortality.
Dr. Sangeeta Agrawal has a passion for obstetrics i.e. care of women in pregnancy. You can feel free to ask queries via email regarding this important event in your life. She provides quality compassionate care during pregnancy.
