How to Get Rid of a Stuffy Nose When Pregnant

During pregnancy, elevated levels of estrogen can cause nasal congestion. This condition is called rhinitis of pregnancy. Many cold remedies such as antihistamines that can help ease nasal congestion are off limits during pregnancy. Natural remedies for stuffy noses include saline sprays, exposure to humidity and mentholated rubs. When symptoms are worse and include a fever or swollen glands, contact your doctor--if an infection develops, you can be given an antibiotic.

Instructions

1. Avoid irritants, such as heavy perfumes or cigarette smoke. Also avoid drastic temperature changes or exercise outside when air pollution is high.

2. Use a warm humidifier. The steam will help to relax congestion and ease breathing. For extra help, place your head near the humidifier and cover with a towel to inhale the steam--carefully, and watch for burns.

3. Try a mentholated-rub product. They produce menthol vapors that ease congestion.

4. Use natural saline nasal sprays or drops. These sprays and drops are applied directly in the nasal cavity.

5. Take a shower. The humidity from the warm water acts in much the same way as the steam from a humidifier. It can provide relief from a stuffy nose. Make sure your water temperature isn't too warm, because this can raise your core body temperature too much.

References

• Coughs and Colds in Pregnancy by Lisa Rodriguez, R.N. and Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.
• Colds During Pregnancy
• Stuffy nose during pregnancy