Sinus Infections While Pregnant
Along with all the wonderful things that pregnancy brings comes the dreaded sinus infection. According to Lisa Rodriguez, R.N., and Marjorie Greenfield, M.D., pregnancy increases nasal congestion, which tends to lead to more cold and sinus issues. Although they are a nuisance, sinus infections are rarely a serious threat to you or your baby. If a high fever develops or you would like medical aid to ease symptoms, see your physician. Otherwise, non medical treatments are fine for both you and your baby and should help you feel better.
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Fluids
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Throughout life, intake of sufficient fluids is beneficial. This is doubly true while experiencing a sinus infection in pregnancy. To help thin out mucus, drink plenty of fluids (at least eight to 10, 8-oz. glasses of water per day). Water, 100 percent fruit juices, broth and soup all add to the fluid count. Stay away from dehydrating caffeinated drinks.
Humidity
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Place a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom or the room in which you spend the most time per day. The added humidity should make breathing easier and keep the nasal passages more moist.
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Saline Nasal Spray
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Saline nasal sprays are an inexpensive way to effectively add moisture directly into your sinus cavities. Squeeze the solution into each nostril twice per day until congestion subsides. A once-per-day spray is good for moisture maintenance.
Warm Shower
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A warm shower with the door closed is a pampering way to unclog sinuses. The steam from the shower helps loosen excess mucus while giving the rest of your body a nice treat.
Nasal Rinse
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Nasal irrigation, also called nasal lavage, is an ancient form of rinsing the nasal cavities with a saline solution. The warm solution flows in one nostril, through the sinuses and out the other nostril. Allergy sufferers and those with colds and flu alike have benefited from the practice. A neti pot is a handy tool for nasal irrigation; find one at a local pharmacy or health food store.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Raúl Hernández González
