Allergies during pregnancy - a double threat

As a rule, allergies do not often appear for the first time during pregnancy. Most women have a clear idea of ​​“their” allergens and the manifestations of the disease, but there may be exceptions. Pregnancy acts as a catalyst that aggravates the problem.

During this period, a woman’s immune system works, as they say, “for wear and tear,” so the reaction to a particular cosmetic product or food product can be unpredictable.

Allergies in pregnant women can occur with varying degrees of severity. For convenience, they are divided into 2 groups. The first includes mild symptoms:

• Allergic rhinitis accompanied by serous discharge from the nasal cavity, a feeling of nasal congestion, and sneezing.
• Conjunctivitis Due to allergies, it manifests itself as increased lacrimation, fear of light, and redness of the cornea. Allergic conjunctivitis and rhinitis often occur simultaneously.
• Urticaria, allergic dermatitis. Manifestations of contact dermatitis include the appearance of a rash on the stomach, back or chest area. Dermatitis is manifested by swelling of the skin, itching, and redness. Urticaria in appearance resembles a “burn” from stinging nettle cells.

The second group includes systemic reactions with severe course:

• Quincke's edema(swelling of the eyelids, lips, tongue, trachea), called “giant urticaria,” is manifested by sudden swelling of the mucous membranes and subcutaneous fatty tissue in the face and neck. Particularly dangerous is swelling of the trachea and larynx, which can lead to serious breathing problems.
• Anaphylactic shock manifested by impaired consciousness, a sharp drop in blood pressure. If the woman is not helped, she may die.

These are immediate type allergic reactions. With delayed-type allergies, the allergen accumulates in the body (often a delayed-action allergy develops against the background of several allergens).

An immune complex reaction may be one of the causes of glomerulonephritis, rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases.

Allergies during pregnancy - effects on the fetus

Allergies are particularly dangerous in first trimester of pregnancy, since the organs, systems and tissues of the fetus are in their infancy, and the placenta with its protective functions is not yet fully formed.

In second And third trimesters the allergy does not have a negative effect on the fetus, since the fully formed placenta does not allow antigens to pass through. But a pregnant woman’s poor health and depressed morale can negatively affect the child’s health.

In addition, allergic reactions can threaten the life of the expectant mother, and uncontrolled use of antihistamines can cause fetal malformations and premature termination of pregnancy. When taking medications on your own, it is impossible to accurately answer the question “Will the baby suffer?” Therefore, you should consult an allergist and gynecologist about what and in what doses should be taken to treat allergies.

Diagnosis of allergies during pregnancy

Diagnosis includes a blood test for allergies, namely:

• total level of lgE antibodies,
• blood screening for allergens, determining specific antibodies,
• skin tests,
• anamnesis collection,
• Keeping a food diary if you suspect a food allergy.

The doctor should know about the patient’s situation in order to prescribe the optimal diagnostic methods for her.

How to treat allergies during pregnancy

Treatment of allergies in pregnant women is quite varied. Below we will describe what you can take to get rid of the main symptoms of allergies.

Treatment of allergies during pregnancy in the 1st trimester

It is not advisable to use any medications during this period.

If you are allergic to flowers, it is advisable to wash your clothes and shoes after each walk. If it is impossible to avoid contact with the allergen, you should wear a medical mask.

For allergic rhinitis

Nasal drops, which are used for a common runny nose, help well with allergic rhinitis.

Products containing sea salt are considered the best for pregnant women.

In addition to the above, you can use:

• Pinosol- contains extracts of mint and eucalyptus, which improve well-being in case of allergic rhinitis.
• Spray Prevalin- forms a thin foam on the mucous membrane, blocking allergens.
• Drops Salin- the main active ingredient is sodium chloride. Helps cleanse the nasal cavity.

Conjunctivitis, lacrimation

Suitable for washing eyes blue drops Innoxa, which contain only natural substances

Itching, rash, peeling

Ointments are a good remedy; they will help get rid of skin allergies during pregnancy - rashes, skin dermatitis. Eg, zinc ointment has a pronounced drying effect.

A suspension can be used in the same way. Tsindol containing zinc oxide.

A good option is creams that contain extracts of medicinal plants. For atopic dermatitis, applying a thin layer to the affected areas helps a lot. Physiogel A.I.

Food and drug allergies - body cleansing

This type of allergy is most often characterized by hives and other skin rashes. The first step is to eliminate the allergen from consumption, and then cleanse the body. This will help:

In case of severe allergies, accompanied by itching or flaking, in the first days you should take a double dose of any sorbent, for example, activated carbon.

Use 2-3 times a day for 1-2 days. Then the usual dose returns - 1 tablet per 10 kg of body weight.

Can I take allergy pills during pregnancy?

As for antihistamines, unfortunately, there are no drugs that are completely safe for a pregnant woman. Let's consider how to treat allergies during pregnancy, which antihistamines can be used during this period on the recommendation of the attending physician, and which are completely prohibited.

You should take into account the indications and contraindications of antihistamines in order to choose the right way to treat allergies in pregnant women, especially in severe cases.

H1-histamine blockers

They block histamine receptors, thus eliminating the symptoms of an allergic reaction. There are 4 generations of these drugs, where each subsequent one is characterized by fewer side effects and the strength of their manifestation, and a longer effect. Listed below are the main tablets of category H1 and the possibility of their use in different trimesters of pregnancy.

1st generation

• Diphenhydramine. Strictly contraindicated throughout pregnancy, since it affects the contractility of the uterus when taken in a dose of more than 50 mg. In extreme cases, it can only be used in the 2nd trimester.
• Suprastin. This drug is contraindicated during pregnancy, although there is no reliable information about its effect on the fetus. The drug is not prescribed in the first trimester of pregnancy and in later stages.
• Tavegil. The drug is used only in cases of emergency, when it is not possible to use another remedy. The drug is not used in the first trimester. Experiments on animals have shown the presence of malformations in the fetus.
• Pipolfen(piperacillin, diprazine). There are no clinical data on the use of this drug, therefore its use is contraindicated. If it is necessary to take drugs during lactation, it should be discontinued.

2nd generation

• Claritin. No negative effects on the fetus and the maternal body have been identified, but at the same time, the reaction of a pregnant woman to the drug can be unpredictable. It is for this reason that Claritin is prescribed to a pregnant woman only as a last resort.
• Terfenadine. Undesirable during pregnancy, may lead to weight loss in the newborn. Used if the effect of use outweighs the risk to the fetus.

3rd generation

• Fexadine. These allergy pills are contraindicated during pregnancy.
• Zyrtec(the second name is cetirizine). A teratogenic effect from the use of the drug has not been identified, but it can pass into breast milk.
• Allertek- can be used in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters as prescribed by a doctor

Corticosteroids

Available in the form of tablets, injections, as well as ointments and creams. The mechanism of action of corticosteroids is based on the inhibition of Th-2 cytokines, “responsible” for the occurrence of an allergic reaction.

It has been established that the use of drugs such as Dexamethasone, Metypred significantly reduces the female body’s resistance to various infections, and therefore also negatively affects the fetus. That is why corticosteroids are prescribed to a pregnant woman if traditional antiallergic drugs do not give the desired effect.

Treatment of allergies in pregnant women with folk remedies

Folk remedies are mainly used in the treatment of skin manifestations of allergies in pregnant women.

When coughing, inhalation of mineral water, from which all the gas is first released, helps well. You can use Borjomi, Essentuki (No. 4, No. 17) or Narzan. An hour after this procedure, additional inhalations are carried out with oils - eucalyptus, peach or olive.

Urticaria during pregnancy

Solutions will relieve skin itching salicylic acid or menthol. Using a disk or cotton swab, wipe the affected areas. Unpleasant sensations disappear literally in a matter of minutes.

It will help with severe skin itching infusion of plantain leaves and dill seeds. The mixture (a tablespoon of dill seeds and the same amount of crushed plantain leaves) is poured with boiling water (0.22 l), left for about two hours and used to wipe the affected areas.

Allergic dermatitis

Used to wipe the skin decoction of chamomile, calendula, St. John's wort and sage. Mix a tablespoon of each component. Then brew one tablespoon of the mixture with a glass of boiling water. The infusion can also be taken orally (1/3 cup, three times a day).

Shredded helps a lot plantain leaf, mixed in equal proportions with calendula and chamomile flowers. Four tablespoons of the mixture are brewed with 0.5 liters of boiling water. Used for wiping the skin and compresses. A good option for lotions is a decoction of oak bark.

Oak bark decoction and rosehip oil extract Allergic dermatitis is also treated.

• 100 grams of oak bark are boiled for 30 minutes in 1 liter of water; It is used in the form of rubbing and compresses.
• The oil is extracted from rosehip seeds; apply externally and internally, 1 tsp. in a day.

Allergic eczema

Helps to cope with such manifestations of this disease fresh cabbage leaf, which is tied to the affected area. The sheet is changed once a day until the symptoms disappear. You can also use compresses with chopped cabbage and egg white (3 tablespoons per 1 white).

It will also help herbal tea: buckthorn, fennel (2 parts each) mixed with dandelion roots, chicory and watch leaf (1 part). Pour a tablespoon of the mixture into a glass of boiling water and boil for half an hour. Take ¾ cup twice a day.

In addition, you can use cider vinegar or birch sap:

• Apple cider vinegar, water and raw egg are mixed in a 1:1:1 ratio and used as a compress.
• Rub the skin with birch sap.

A series of allergies during pregnancy

A decoction of the string relieves itching and redness and has a calming effect. The course can last up to several years, but after 20 weeks of use you should take a 10-week break.

One way to use: 1 tsp. herbs per glass of boiling water, use instead of tea/coffee. Also a solution with 3 tsp. per glass of boiling water you can treat the skin.

Before using any folk remedies and vitamins, you should consult an allergist.

Natural antihistamines for pregnant women

Can natural substances help prevent allergies or reduce their symptoms? Below we will talk about the possibility of reducing allergies without the help of antihistamines.

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid

Minimizes allergic manifestations such as bronchospasm or runny nose.

It should be taken gradually, starting with 500 mg/day and then gradually increasing the dose to 3-4 g.

Prevents symptoms such as rashes, itchy skin, red eyes and excessive watery eyes. Taking these drugs depends on the characteristics of the body.

It is a universal natural antihistamine. It will help you reduce the symptoms of allergic asthma or dermatitis. Take 500 mcg for 3-4 weeks.

Zinc helps reduce allergies to various chemical compounds. It should be taken orally only in complex form as part of medications.

Oleic acid, which is part of the oil, is an excellent antiallergic agent. Therefore, it is useful to use this type of vegetable oil for cooking.

Allergy prevention

To prevent the development of allergies in pregnant women, they resort to the following preventive measures:

• Avoid contact with all animals;
• In the house Wet cleaning is carried out regularly, dust is removed with a vacuum cleaner with a water filter, rooms are ventilated, and carpets, curtains and pillows are cleaned of dust at least once a week to prevent the development of allergies to dust mites;
• From the menu you need exclude products to which an allergic reaction has been identified; the consumption of highly allergenic foods (citrus fruits, chocolate, peanuts) is limited; you should also avoid eating new, exotic foods;
• It is worth giving up bad habits, since they can provoke allergies in the child. For example, maternal smoking can lead to pneumonia or bronchial asthma in the child.

When treated under the supervision of a specialist, allergies in pregnant women do not pose a danger to the fetus, and the use of preventive measures and refusal of self-medication allows one to avoid complications during pregnancy.

Allergies during pregnancy: we treat without consequences

During pregnancy, every woman encounters surprises that are associated either with the state of health or with the activity of internal organs. Some of these surprises are pleasant, such as stronger hair and nails. And some not so much. One of the unpleasant surprises that an expectant mother may encounter is an allergy. For the first time it may occur during pregnancy, even if you have not previously noticed such an illness.

Why allergies occur

An allergy is a non-standard reaction of the immune system to external factors. The immune system of a pregnant woman works completely differently from that of a woman who is not pregnant. As a result, the body’s reaction to the usual tangerines or pollen cannot be predicted. Allergies during pregnancy can occur in both girls aged 18 to 25 and older women. Of course, the likelihood of allergic reactions increases after 35 years.

In the first 12-14 weeks of pregnancy, allergies may be a reaction to the fetus, like toxicosis, for example. It goes away on its own when the body gets used to its condition. Also, the immune system can react negatively to animals, dust, food, cigarette smoke, cosmetics, and chemicals. Because of this increased sensitivity of the body, you should be more careful about what you eat and what is around you.

Also, allergies can worsen in experienced allergy sufferers. If you have previously suffered from allergic reactions, then when planning a pregnancy you should consult a specialist. You will be prescribed a course of treatment that will reduce the exacerbation of the disease to a minimum during pregnancy. The good news is that during pregnancy, a woman's body produces more cortisol. This is an anti-allergenic hormone that reduces the severity of the disease or even eliminates it.

Allergy symptoms

The symptoms of allergies when carrying a baby are not much different from those of a non-pregnant woman. This may be sudden swelling of the throat or nasal mucosa. A woman's eyes may suddenly begin to water, she begins to sneeze frequently and without stopping. A common manifestation is a severe cough. Often, allergies cause a rash.

Depending on the symptoms, the severity of this disease can be divided into 2 groups:

• mild (runny nose, conjunctivitis, local urticaria);
• severe (general urticaria, Quincke's edema, anaphylactic shock).

The body's reactions, which are classified as severe manifestations of allergies, are dangerous because they occur completely suddenly and are difficult for the pregnant woman's body. This situation requires resuscitation measures.

The most dangerous manifestation of all of the above is anaphylactic shock . A reaction occurs instantly to any drug or manipulation of a pregnant woman’s body; even an insect bite can be fatal. It takes from 2 to 30 minutes to save the life of a mother and baby. But fortunately such cases occur one in a million.

Quincke's edema characterized by swelling of the mucous membranes, skin and subcutaneous tissue. The areas that are most at risk are the forehead, lips, eyelids, cheeks. Swelling in the area of ​​the feet and hands often occurs. If there is swelling of the mucous membrane of the digestive tract, there may be severe stomach pain, nausea and vomiting.

Any of the cases requires consultation with an allergist. Only a specialist can assess the severity of your disease and prescribe treatment depending on your symptoms, your general condition and drug tolerance.

How does the disease affect pregnancy and baby?

A pregnant woman experiences any change in her body with caution and a lot of questions. Especially if this is your first pregnancy. If earlier, if an allergy occurred, we could simply go to the pharmacy and buy any medicine, now, first of all, we should think about how it will affect the fetus. Remember, allergy medications during pregnancy should only be prescribed by a doctor.

The allergy itself has no effect on the fetus. Allergens (pathogens) are not able to penetrate the placenta. Their influence is manifested only by the fact that in the future, after birth, the child may begin to have a negative reaction to those substances from which the mother suffered during pregnancy. That is, an allergy is a disease that can be inherited. But this is not a 100% guarantee that the baby will be allergic. His dad's genes may take over.

But the results of our self-medication can be disastrous. Many drugs can cause malformations of the nervous system and heart. Also, taking the wrong medications can interfere with the blood flow between mother and baby. And this is the baby’s main source of life. There may be a lack of nutrients or oxygen.

Also, negative consequences from allergies during pregnancy can occur if it leads to complications in the general health of the mother. If it leads to the development of bronchial asthma, anaphylactic shock, then this makes breathing difficult. And a lack of oxygen can lead to fetal hypoxia. And, of course, discomfort with a runny nose, cough, watery eyes, and fatigue also negatively affect the baby. If the mother is unwell, the baby feels it.

How are allergies diagnosed and treated in pregnant women?

According to experts, allergies are a disease of civilization. About 25% of the population today suffers from this disease. And if we talk about pregnant women, then 45% of women in an interesting position complain of allergic reactions. When registering at the antenatal clinic, you are always interviewed to identify the level of risk and likelihood of allergies occurring during the entire 9 months of bearing a child.

In most cases, allergies are determined after examination and in the presence of characteristic symptoms. If symptoms are present, the doctor will usually ask questions to help identify the irritant. Next, tests and treatment are prescribed.

If it is necessary to determine a reaction to a substance without obvious signs, a skin test can be performed. To do this, a small amount of an allergenic substance is placed under the skin. If there is no reaction to it within half an hour, then the body will not react negatively to it.

It is almost impossible to cure allergies; the main thing is to cope with its symptoms. Most cases of eliminating the irritant from the pregnant woman’s environment result in the disappearance of the allergic reaction. Thus, during pregnancy, the first thing to do if you have allergies is to avoid contact with allergens.

The choice of allergy medications during pregnancy is carried out especially carefully. Their main goal is to quickly, but harmlessly for the fetus, relieve the expectant mother of symptoms. There are a number of medications known that can alleviate the symptoms of the disease and not have a negative effect on the fetus, but only a doctor should prescribe them.

A fairly common reaction to any substance can be a skin rash. In pregnant women, it often appears on the stomach. It is dangerous because the rashes can itch, swell and burst. And this is already a risk of infection. In this case, the doctor may prescribe an ointment to relieve itching and other symptoms. However, products for external use can have a negative effect on the baby no less than tablets and syrups, so you should not select them yourself.

Factors causing allergies

Pregnancy is a new life for your body. He completely rearranges his work to suit the needs of the baby, who is growing and developing inside. His reaction even to your favorite sweater can be the most incredible.

During pregnancy, you should be careful with food, clothing, cosmetics, and chemicals used to clean the room. Even the environment can cause allergies.

From food Allergies during pregnancy can be caused by citrus fruits, chocolate, exotic fruits and vegetables that you try for the first time, and some types of fish. It is better not to tempt fate and not include anything new in your diet while you are carrying and feeding your baby.

Speaking of animals , then the hair of cats and dogs, bird fluff can also become causative agents of the disease. If you have a pet, it is better to give it to friends or relatives during pregnancy.

Severe stress , experiences, the chemical industry and metallurgy in your area are the first sources of the development of allergies to harmful environmental manifestations. And small but dangerous insects can lead to allergies. Often, a bee sting that was previously harmless to you can cause severe swelling at the site of the sting, fever, and even anaphylactic shock.

During pregnancy, many women (especially those with chronic diseases) take several medications . Sometimes this is a necessity, and sometimes it is a simple desire of the pregnant woman. Plus, vitamins and other supplements that the body needs are mandatory. Often these medications cause the development of allergies.

Prevention

It is always possible to avoid any disease. Of course, no one will give you a complete guarantee that if you take certain precautions, you will never get sick. But it is possible to reduce the likelihood. To do this you should:

1. Give up all bad habits. This is especially true for smoking. In addition to allergies, it negatively affects the development of the child’s lungs and can lead to intrauterine growth retardation. Children of smoking mothers often suffer from bronchial asthma and pneumonia;
2. Carry out wet cleaning of the premises every day. Once a week, beat out rugs, pillows, blankets. You can even, like animals, remove curtains and carpets from the house for a while. They collect a lot of dust, and mites living in it are the first source of allergies;
3. Minimize contact with all animals. This applies to both domestic and wild ones;
4. Don't experiment with nutrition. Eat what you already know your body's reaction to. Less citrus fruits. Choose something that will be healthy, but not allergenic. For example, choose kiwi over lemon or orange. Kiwi has more vitamin C, but is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

As for prevention of allergies in newborns, there is no better remedy than breast milk. Mother's milk is a source of substances that help cope with allergens. Even if you had an allergy during pregnancy, you now have antibodies to it and can pass them on to your baby.

Thus, in case of any manifestations of allergies, you should immediately consult a doctor. If you don’t know which one or where in your city he takes, consult a gynecologist for advice. Even if you have previously successfully treated your allergies on your own, do not take your old medications. Now you need to think not only about combating symptoms, but also about the effect of the medicine on the fetus and the consequences of allergies.

Any ailment can be overcome if done correctly, in consultation with a doctor. Preventing allergies can also help you avoid suffering from this disease for the entire 9 months. If you are an experienced allergy sufferer, then proper behavior, nutrition and lifestyle during pregnancy can lead to the fact that it will become your cure for allergies. Know that if relief from allergic reactions occurred during one pregnancy, then the same will happen during subsequent ones.

Think about your health and the health of your baby. Don't risk the little man's future.

What to do if allergies worsen during pregnancy

Currently, more than 20% of the world's population suffers from various types of allergies, and in areas with unfavorable ecology - 50% or more. From 5 to 20% of patients with acute allergies are pregnant women. Over the past 20 years, these numbers have increased 6 times.

An allergy is a reaction of the body's immune system to external and internal irritants. Anything can be an allergen: plant pollen, dust, animal hair, cosmetics, medications, certain foods, etc. Allergy is not a contraindication to pregnancy, but its manifestations during pregnancy can change significantly. The reason for this is natural changes in the immunity of a pregnant woman. The following options are possible here:

• The beneficial effect of pregnancy on the manifestations of allergies and improvement of the condition. During pregnancy, a woman’s body increases the synthesis of cortisol, a hormone that reduces allergic activity. Under its influence, even the symptoms of bronchial asthma can recede.
• No effect of pregnancy on a history of allergies.
• Exacerbation of allergies during pregnancy, as well as active reactions of the body to new allergens.

Allergy symptoms in pregnant women

Mild manifestations of allergies during pregnancy include:

• Allergic rhinitis: swelling of the mucous membrane and nasal congestion, burning sensation in the throat, sneezing, profuse runny nose;
• Allergic conjunctivitis: redness and swelling of the eyelids and eyeballs, itching, lacrimation;
• Localized urticaria: the formation of sharply defined, flaky blisters on some areas of the skin, accompanied by severe itching.

Severe manifestations of allergies during pregnancy include:

• Quincke's edema: swelling of the skin, subcutaneous tissue and mucous membranes, including the gastrointestinal mucosa. Swelling of the larynx is accompanied by choking and coughing, swelling of the gastrointestinal tract is accompanied by abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting;
• Generalized urticaria: rashes all over the body, swelling in the tongue and larynx;
• Bronchial asthma: attacks of suffocation due to spasm of the bronchi and swelling of their mucous membrane;
• Anaphylactic shock: an immediate allergic reaction, accompanied by a drop in blood pressure and disruption of the blood supply to vital internal organs.

According to statistics, acute rhinitis occurs at 11-12 weeks in approximately 50% of all pregnant women, and it is important to distinguish it from allergic rhinitis. A woman knows in advance that she has bronchial asthma; its occurrence during pregnancy is unlikely. Exacerbation is possible at 24-36 weeks.

Treatment of allergies in pregnant women

If the allergen is unknown, you should consult an allergist or immunologist to conduct appropriate skin tests. Allergy treatment comes down to eliminating its symptoms.

The allergy itself does not pose any danger to the unborn child, since the antibodies produced by the mother's body cannot penetrate the placenta. Although if a pregnant woman has allergies, the predisposition to allergic diseases will most likely be inherited by the child. A general deterioration in the health of the pregnant woman and medications used to relieve allergy symptoms can have a negative impact on the child.

For this reason, it is advisable, if possible, to eliminate all contacts with allergens and factors that can provoke an exacerbation of allergies, as well as to refrain from taking medications, especially in the first trimester, when the formation of the child’s future organs occurs.

If taking medications cannot be avoided, you should carefully select them together with an allergist, weighing the benefits and possible harms of taking the drug. The difficulty is that most antihistamines are contraindicated during pregnancy. Here is a list of drugs that require special attention:

• Diphenhydramine: a dose of more than 50 mg at a time close to childbirth can provoke increased excitability or uterine contractions;
• Terfenadine: may cause weight loss in the newborn;
• Astemizole: toxic to the fetus;
• Pipolfen: not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• Suprastin, Claritin, Fexadin are prescribed for acute allergic reactions only in cases where the effect of taking the pills outweighs the potential risk to the unborn child;
• Tavegil: is prescribed only for health reasons, when the manifestations of an allergic reaction threaten the woman’s life, and there is no possibility of using any other drug for a number of reasons.

Ways to reduce allergy symptoms without resorting to antihistamines: vitamin therapy

Some vitamins are natural antihistamines.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). 1-4 grams of ascorbic acid per day can relieve attacks of rhinitis and mild bronchospasms. You need to start taking vitamin C gradually, with 500 mg per day, gradually increasing the dose to 4 g over ten days. Vitamin B12 is the most universal natural antihistamine. Taking it can reduce the manifestations of allergic asthma and dermatitis, sensitivity to sulfites (egg yolk). You should take this vitamin 500 mg for 3-4 weeks.

Pantothenic acid also effective for allergic rhinitis. Start with 100 mg at night. The first signs of a decrease in symptoms may appear within 15-30 minutes. If the drug helps, you can increase the dose to 250 mg per day.

Nicotinic acid (nicotinamide) most effective for allergies to pollen. You can take 200 to 300 mg of nicotinamide per day.

Zinc reduces allergies to various chemical compounds (household chemicals, perfumes, cosmetics). You should start taking it with 50-60 mg per day in the form of a complex compound (picolinate, aspartate). Caution: Taking zinc in an uncomplexed ionic form from an inorganic compound (zinc sulfate) can lead to copper deficiency, causing anemia.

Oleic acid, which is part of olive oil, inhibits the production of histamine. Therefore, to prevent allergies, it is recommended to cook with olive oil.

Fish oil and linoleic acid prevent inflammatory processes of allergic origin: runny nose, itching, rash. There are no general recommendations for their use. However, before taking any vitamins, you should always consult your doctor.

Prevention of allergies in pregnant women

If during pregnancy a woman had an exacerbation of allergies, then the probability of its occurrence in the unborn child will be about 50%, if there is a predisposition to allergies in both parents - 80%. It is not specific allergic manifestations that are inherited, but the body’s predisposition to various types of allergic reactions.

If you have any type of allergy, it is recommended to follow a hypoallergenic diet, which is based on excluding certain foods from the diet. It is recommended to follow such a diet from the 7th month of pregnancy, but if you have a pronounced allergic reaction, you can follow it from the first days of pregnancy.

Allergenic products include fish and seafood, citrus fruits, chocolate and cocoa, honey, nuts, smoked meats and marinades, red berries (raspberries, strawberries), juices and carbonated drinks, black and red caviar, sweets, spicy and salty foods.

It is recommended to include in the menu butter and fermented milk products, dietary meat (veal, rabbit, chicken), vegetables and fruits of dull color (apples and pears, potatoes, cabbage, zucchini, currants and gooseberries), cereals, legumes, herbs.

• Smoking during pregnancy is strictly prohibited;
• You should regularly do wet cleaning, vacuum the furniture and ventilate the room;
• Get rid of things - the so-called “dust collectors”: carpets, soft toys;
• Limit contact with pets and do not keep them at home;
• Spend as much time as possible outdoors and lead a healthy lifestyle.

The changes that occur in the body of a woman expecting a baby affect all systems and organs. Pregnancy hormones also affect the immune system.

As a rule, when talking about pregnancy, they often mean a decrease in the expectant mother’s immunity and her vulnerability to viruses and infections.

However, acute immune reactions often occur during pregnancy. In this case, the allergen may be a product or phenomenon that has not previously caused allergic reactions in a woman.

What is an allergy?

Immune cells are designed to protect our body from dangerous substances. An allergic reaction is the work of “especially zealous” immune cells that see danger where it should not exist.

As a result, in response to consuming an allergen product, the same reactions occur that would protect against a virus or splinter: swelling and inflammation, lacrimation and runny nose, and the temperature may rise.

During pregnancy, when all body systems work to ensure the health of the fetus, the likelihood of allergies increases significantly.

Allergic reactions can vary in symptoms, rate of increase and organs affected. Doctors distinguish several subgroups of allergic manifestations.

These are life-threatening conditions, a manifestation of immediate hypersensitivity). Among them:

• Quincke's edema;
• anaphylactic shock;
• exudative erythema;
• atopic bronchial asthma.

1. Mild reactions.

They do not pose a direct threat to life, but can become chronic. These include:

The causes of the disease depend on the type of allergen and the presence (or absence) of allergies in the woman before pregnancy.

Some allergens provoke an acute reaction upon first contact.

This type of reaction can be caused by exotic fruits, pollen, and some types of cosmetics.

Another type of allergens (food, some types of medications, dust, fluff and fur of pets, etc.) leaves toxic breakdown products in the body, which gradually accumulate and only then cause allergies.

This is why a reaction may occur to seemingly familiar products. Quite often, pregnant women are allergic to strawberries, tomatoes, chocolate, honey, fluff, sun, and washing powders.

During pregnancy, identifying a specific allergen can be especially difficult, since the fetus itself and its waste products can act as toxins for the mother’s body.

Allergy is a total reaction to pregnancy-dependent and independent factors.

Depending on the severity of the process and its localization, the following table can be compiled of the most typical allergic reactions in pregnant women.

Acute allergic reactions

• Quincke's edema.

Swelling of the mucous membranes may spread to the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Often localized in the respiratory tract (dangerous from asphyxia), genitals.

May also affect joints (pain, stiffness) or spread to the gastrointestinal mucosa (pain, “acute abdomen,” symptoms of obstruction).

Severe damage to large areas of skin with severe itching and the appearance of blisters with bright (erythematous) edges. Blisters and skin thickening tend to coalesce.

Unlike milder, localized hives, this type of allergy is not usually associated with previous tactile contact with an allergen.

May be caused by medications, cosmetics, or pollen. An acute condition develops within an hour after contact with the allergen (usually in the first 5 minutes).

Anaphylactic shock is often accompanied by other allergic manifestations - swelling of the larynx or urticaria; all reactions can occur simultaneously, which significantly complicates the woman’s condition.

Mild allergic reactions

• Allergic rhinitis.

It can be caused by seasonal flowering of plants, house dust or animal hair, and it can also be a manifestation of toxicosis in pregnant women. The disease is manifested by swelling of the nasal mucosa, congestion or secretion of copious mucous secretions, itching in the nose and sneezing.

It usually has the same causes as allergic rhinitis, but the eye area is affected: swelling of the eyelids, redness and itching, blood vessels on the eyeball protrude, there may be lacrimation and photophobia.

It usually appears at the site of contact with the allergen, but can appear without it. Blisters and itching appear on a specific area of ​​the body or limb, but do not affect the entire skin. Allergies can appear on the arms, legs, stomach, neck, chest area or even on the face.

Effect on the fetus?

In most cases, a mother's allergies are not dangerous for the fetus. The placenta takes on the function of filtering possible toxins.

But in cases of acute reactions that threaten the mother's life or extensive swelling that can affect circulation, the fetus may also feel the secondary effects of the maternal allergy.

If the mother’s allergy takes a chronic course, then the fetus feels changes in her body. This may be an increased need for oxygen due to nasal congestion, or a stressful condition caused by incessant itching and discomfort.

Therefore, treatment of allergic reactions during pregnancy is mainly symptomatic.

However, if acute allergies occur, the health and life of the mother comes first. A woman should not resist treatment, since hypotension and breathing problems will become dangerous for the fetus over time.

In case of angioedema or anaphylactic shock, doctors use the entire arsenal of necessary medications for treatment. After the threat to the woman’s life has passed (blood pressure is normalized, swelling of the larynx and gastrointestinal tract subsides), they move on to symptomatic treatment of residual effects.

This certificate is required for admission to the maternity hospital. If you cannot confirm the nature of urticaria or eczema on your skin, you will have to give birth in a maternity hospital for infectious patients.

To combat allergies, you need to use a whole range of different measures, including local treatment, homeopathy, taking antihistamines, diet, etc.

To treat a runny nose, you can use vasoconstrictor drops (limited time!), oily herbal or saline solutions.

You can also rinse your eyes with saline solution or strong tea.

You can use eye drops or runny nose drops with antiallergic components. When applied topically, the dose of the drug is small and will not harm the baby.

Skin allergies can be treated with zinc-based ointments, as well as with topical antihistamines or even formulations with added hormones. But they must be used carefully and in limited quantities, applied in a thin layer to the affected areas.

If the allergy is caused by dust or flowering plants, barrier products that prevent the allergen from entering will help. These could be nasal filter inserts, medical masks, or the drug Prevalin, which creates a protective gel layer on the nasal mucosa.

If an allergic reaction greatly worries the expectant mother, interferes with proper sleep and rest, and causes additional stress, antihistamine tablets can be used.

They should be prescribed by a doctor, taking into account the type of allergy, medical history and stage of pregnancy.

Effective potent drugs such as diphenhydramine or pipolfen can be dangerous to the fetus.

But modern allergy pills - Zyrtec, Zodak, etc. - can be used for the period of getting rid of obvious allergic manifestations. Then they move on to diet, vitamin prophylaxis and local treatment.

Courses of homeopathic treatment also provide a lasting effect. But they usually take several months, so treatment should be started at the beginning of the pregnancy planning stage.

Therefore, preventive treatment of the mother is not only the key to a successful pregnancy, but also concern for the future health of the child.

A hypoallergenic diet will protect mother and baby from unnecessary troubles and rid the body of possible toxins. In addition, it is based on the principles of a healthy diet, excluding fried and spicy foods, that is, it is beneficial for the mother and fetus.

A strict version of the hypoallergenic diet involves limiting protein foods. But if a woman has switched to this diet for preventive purposes, the section of protein products can be expanded; they are necessary during the period of active fetal growth.

If possible, you should get rid of pets or give them to relatives for a while. Regularly wet-clean your home and remove long-pile carpets. All this is a good prevention of allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis.

The dietary vagaries of pregnant women are known. But if possible, it is better to refrain from exotic (especially previously unfamiliar) fruits during this period. Some families, out of concern for the health of the mother and unborn baby, decide to temporarily change their unfavorable native climate to warmer countries.

At first glance, this has its advantages. But a change of place of residence is associated with a change in diet, water quality, surrounding insects and plants - and all of this together and individually can become an impetus for the development of an allergic reaction.

Vitamins can cause allergies, but sometimes they also help combat them.

Vitamins C and P affect vascular permeability and reduce the frequency of respiratory events. Vitamin B12 is a natural antihistamine and helps with dermatitis. Fish oil eases the course of inflammatory processes.

I am 39 years old. I am a mother of four children. I am not prone to allergies, and never have been. This is what I thought until my 4th pregnancy. When I was 5 months old, I got sick. At first there was a severe runny nose, then a cough began. It seemed like a common cold, I thought when I went to the doctor. Well, or, in extreme cases, inflammation, which I didn’t even want to think about.

But when the doctor began to examine me, it turned out that there was no inflammation and that I had some kind of unusual cough, and my throat was red. The therapist said that I had allergies, which I categorically denied. But, after undergoing extensive tests, it turned out that my eosinophils in my blood were already off the charts (substances that confirm the presence of an allergic reaction in the body). I was shocked. Where and for what.

The doctor said that it is impossible to treat with drugs now. She didn’t even advise determining what for, since she wouldn’t treat me, it was impossible. I didn’t like it, but I trusted her, because she is a doctor. She also did not prescribe a diet. She prescribed gargling with a decoction of string, for cough “Mukaltin”. In general, she said to be treated with folk remedies that are not harmful.

It didn't help me very much. I had such a suffocating cough that I was surprised how the fetus was still holding up after this. All my muscles ached, including my abdominal area. The doctor then allowed me to take Diazolin, and then only a child’s dose.

And it didn't really help. Time just passed, and the cough subsided on its own. Naturally, I did the assigned procedures, even though I thought that they didn’t really help me. No complications were observed until the end of pregnancy.

For expectant mothers, I advise that in case of any ailments during pregnancy and not only, immediately go to an appointment only with an experienced doctor. By the way, I decided never to contact this therapist. Later, when I told her, everyone was surprised how I could trust her.

During pregnancy, there are many external and internal factors that can cause an allergic reaction in a woman. The best remedy is prevention and it should begin at the stage of pregnancy planning.

If the disease cannot be avoided, then only a doctor can prescribe a treatment that will be effective for the mother and at the same time safe for the fetus.

Why do allergies occur during pregnancy?

• Why do allergies occur during pregnancy?
• How to treat sore throat during lactation
• How to treat allergies in Shar Peis

External signs of allergies

The most common manifestations of an allergic reaction are redness at the site of contact with the allergen, burning, itching, as well as lacrimation, runny nose, cough, hives, and swelling. Some time after the irritant disappears, the allergic reaction subsides.

Are allergies dangerous during pregnancy?

Mild allergies in themselves are not dangerous for the fetus, however, constant allergic reactions deplete the body of the expectant mother and can be an indirect cause of deterioration in well-being and the occurrence of concomitant diseases.

Diagnosis and treatment

In most cases, allergies are identified as a result of a medical examination based on the presence of characteristic symptoms. After interviewing the pregnant woman, the doctor usually recommends eliminating contact with possible allergens and prescribing treatment to alleviate the course of the disease. If the cause of the allergy cannot be determined, the pregnant woman may be prescribed special tests: a small amount of a solution containing the allergen is injected under the skin and the body’s reaction is observed. If the allergy does not appear within half an hour, it means that the pregnant woman’s body is indifferent to this substance.

Allergies during pregnancy

Pregnancy affects all processes in a woman’s body. The changes also affect the immune system, which can lead to malfunctions and immunosuppression. Against this background, the risk of developing a new and relapse of an existing allergy in the expectant mother increases. Allergies during pregnancy occur in 30% of women.

Features of allergies during pregnancy

Allergic diseases rarely appear for the first time in women in an interesting situation. By this time, many expectant mothers are already aware of “their” intolerance to certain allergens and the symptoms that the disease causes, but there are exceptions. Pregnancy can be a specific catalyst that may worsen the problem.

The expectant mother's immunity works with renewed vigor, so it can react unpredictably to any allergen. So, what allergens should you be wary of during pregnancy?

The main allergens include:

• dust;
• plant pollen and ragweed;
• pet hair;
• medications;
• certain food products, often chemical additives;
• ingredients of some cosmetics;
• cold;
• sunlight.

There are also predisposing factors that increase the risk of an allergic reaction:

• chronic stress;
• weakened immune defense;
• uncontrolled treatment with various medications;
• frequent contact with household chemicals;
• wearing synthetic clothing;
• abuse of cosmetics;
• non-compliance with recommendations for proper nutrition;
• excessive consumption of foods that are potential allergens;
• unfavorable environmental conditions.

Types of allergies during pregnancy

Allergies during pregnancy are of the following types:

• Allergic rhinitis. It occurs with copious nasal discharge, constant sneezing and itching, and nasal congestion. A runny nose can be caused by seasonal flowering plants, particles of pet hair, and house dust. Also, the cause of such rhinitis is sometimes toxicosis of pregnant women.
• Allergic conjunctivitis. Manifested by profuse lacrimation, photophobia, and corneal hyperemia. Rhinitis and conjunctivitis are usually combined with each other, that is, they are diagnosed at the same time. The causes will generally be the same as for allergic rhinitis.
• Urticaria, dermatitis. The disease is characterized by rashes on the skin, redness and swelling of the skin, and painful itching. The external picture of the pathology resembles a nettle burn. Typically, the reaction occurs locally, at the site of contact with a potential allergen. For example, an allergy to the face during pregnancy is often the result of intolerance to one or another cosmetic.

• Quincke's edema. The pathology affects the eyelids, lips, tongue and upper respiratory tract. The disease develops rapidly and suddenly. The greatest risk is swelling of the larynx and trachea, which can affect respiratory function. Sometimes angioedema affects the tissues of the joints, causing pain and impaired mobility, and the digestive organs, as a result of which a woman may complain of abdominal pain and signs of intestinal obstruction.
• Anaphylactic shock. The most severe form of allergy, which occurs with a change in consciousness and a drop in blood pressure. In the absence of appropriate help, a woman may die. Anaphylactic shock develops within an hour after encountering an allergen. Provocateurs of this condition can be plant pollen, medicines and cosmetics.

Effect of allergies on the fetus

Any changes in well-being worry the expectant mother. Especially when it comes to your first pregnancy. If before pregnancy, a woman could purchase any drug at the pharmacy to treat allergy symptoms, now she has to think about the health of the fetus and how this or that drug will affect its development. This means that allergy pills during pregnancy must be prescribed by a specialist.

It turns out that allergies are dangerous because they can be inherited. However, this does not happen in all cases. Sometimes the father's genes gain an advantage.

You can take a more detailed look at the situation and what effect allergies during pregnancy have on the fetus by trimester in the table.

Also, allergies during pregnancy can cause health complications for a woman. Banal allergic rhinitis can cause attacks of bronchial asthma and anaphylactic shock, which disrupt normal breathing. Oxygen deficiency can trigger the development of fetal hypoxia. The same thing happens when a woman has a runny nose, weakness, or cough - the unborn baby feels all the changes in her body and they affect its development.

What to do if allergy symptoms appear?

It is important to consider that an allergic reaction in pregnant women is sometimes a completely normal response of the immune system, as a sign of intolerance to a new product or chemical. For example, a woman bought a face cream that she had not used before. In this case, the body may react inadequately to a component included in the cream that was unfamiliar to it before. As a result, a minor allergy occurs, which goes away quite quickly without any intervention.

The situation is more complicated with symptoms that have arisen before and appear during pregnancy in a woman’s body. This case requires the following actions:

1. Contact an allergist. If allergy symptoms appear, first of all, you need to find out their original source and diagnose the problem. The specialist prescribes diagnostic measures for the woman - usually skin tests or blood tests for allergies.
2. Start treatment on time. Allergies that arise while carrying a baby are complicated by the fact that you can not take all medications that are sold in pharmacies. Only a specialist can prescribe treatment for allergies during pregnancy, who decides which medications will be safe for the expectant mother and her child.

1. Avoid contact with known allergens.
2. Avoid eating potentially allergenic foods such as chocolate, citrus fruits, etc.
3. For face and body care, choose only natural cosmetics.
4. Limit contact with household chemicals as much as possible.

Diagnostics

Diagnostic measures include:

• blood test to determine the total titer of immunoglobulin E and antibodies to allergens;
• skin allergy tests;

• studying the medical history;
• recording data in a food diary if a food allergy is suspected during pregnancy.

How to treat allergies?

Preventive measures will help reduce the risk of developing the disease. It is not advisable for an expectant mother to come into contact with synthetic detergents, eat potentially allergenic foods, and use cosmetics to a minimum. Also, to prevent the development of allergies, a woman should avoid stress factors, both mental and physical.

If you fail to protect yourself from allergies, you should seek medical help at its initial manifestations. Only a doctor, based on a comprehensive examination, can accurately determine the causes of the disease, the specific irritant and tell how to treat allergies.

Allergies most often develop in the early stages of pregnancy, but the use of medications at this stage is extremely undesirable. If a woman experiences allergic reactions to pollen, she should stay at home if possible, put on sunglasses and a medical mask before going outside, thoroughly wash her wardrobe items and wash her shoes after a walk.

Treatment of allergic rhinitis. Nasal sprays and drops prescribed for the treatment of ordinary rhinitis also improve well-being in case of allergic rhinitis. The best allergy medications for expectant mothers are natural remedies based on sea water. These can be Aqua Maris drops, Dolphin spray, Aqualor, etc. The listed drugs cleanse the nasal cavity, washing out allergens from the mucous membrane, and normalize nasal breathing without harming the unborn child.

In addition to the listed medications, pregnant women can use the following allergy medications for allergic rhinitis:

• Pinosol drops of natural origin, which contain eucalyptus and mint oils: the drug softens the nasal mucosa, helps relieve its swelling, due to which the well-being of allergies improves;
• Prevalin spray - this medicine forms an invisible film on the nasal mucosa, neutralizing the effect of allergens;
• Salin drops - the drug is based on sodium chloride, its main effect is to safely cleanse the nasal cavity of potential irritants.

Treatment of allergic conjunctivitis. Innox drops, which contain only natural ingredients, are suitable for instillation into the eyes.

Treatment of itching, skin rashes, peeling. Allergy ointment during pregnancy helps get rid of skin reactions - rashes, dermatitis. For expectant mothers, the safest would be zinc ointment, which dries the skin, successfully relieving inflammation and external manifestations of allergies. An alternative to zinc ointment can be Tsindol, which is based on zinc oxide.

Also effective against skin allergic reactions are ointments and creams with extracts of medicinal plants. For example, ointment containing calendula, chamomile, celandine, etc. You can buy them at the pharmacy.

If we are talking about atopic dermatitis, then Physiogel has proven itself well. It is applied to areas of the skin damaged by inflammation and scratching in a thin layer. The product moisturizes the skin well, promoting its regeneration. It can be used on the face as an allergy cream during pregnancy.

Treatment of food and drug allergies. The main treatment for these conditions, which has a positive effect on the well-being of the expectant mother, is to cleanse the body. Typically, this type of allergy occurs with clinical signs of urticaria and other rashes. Therefore, the first thing to do is to eliminate the potential irritant from consumption, and then cleanse the body with the help of drugs such as Enterosgel and Laktofiltrum.

In case of a severe allergic reaction, if the skin allergy is accompanied by severe itching and discomfort, you can drink a double dosage of any sorbent (Activated carbon, etc.). The amount of the drug depends on the weight of the expectant mother: 1 tablet is designed for 5 kg of body weight.

Antihistamines during pregnancy

This point needs to be considered separately, since it is important to take medications for allergies during pregnancy with great caution and with the permission of the attending physician. The allergist examines the patient’s medical history, conducts appropriate diagnostics and examination, and, if necessary (if the means of prevention and the above methods of treating allergic diseases do not help), prescribes antihistamines, provided that the potential risk of complications for the developing fetus is not higher than the expected benefits of treatment.

It is highly undesirable to use all drops and tablets that have an antihistamine effect to treat allergies in the first 12 weeks of gestation. As for the second and third trimester, there are no such serious restrictions; antiallergic drugs are prescribed much more often.

The following table will discuss the problem of choosing drugs for the treatment of allergies by trimester.

Allergies during pregnancy: drugs or folk remedies? What to do to treat allergies during pregnancy?

Allergies during pregnancy are quite unpleasant in themselves. However, it is often accompanied by specific symptoms and gives complications. A woman may develop symptoms of rhinitis, asthma, bronchitis, allergic reactions to food, dust and wool, plants, etc. Moreover, some doctors argue that this is far from a disease, but simply the body’s reaction to various environmental factors, foods or medications .

According to statistics, allergies during pregnancy can vary in severity and occur in most pregnant women. Since at this moment the body is weakened, solving other pressing problems - preserving the fetus. Women often have a question: if an allergy appears during pregnancy, how to treat it?

Anything can cause an allergic reaction, and, unfortunately, the body’s predisposition to it cannot be cured. You can try to prevent it by taking preventative measures. But the symptoms that characterize this or that type of allergy may not always indicate its occurrence. That is, a woman may feel some discomfort, but its cause may not be an allergy.

A runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion are called acute rhinitis. These symptoms often occur in many pregnant women. Are allergies during pregnancy always accompanied by these symptoms? It is not at all necessary, if at this time the trees are not blooming, poplar fluff is not flying, the apartment is clean, free of dust, and there are no pets in the house, then most likely it is a simple cold. But it is still necessary to inform the doctor about this in order to prevent the development of the disease during this difficult period.

How can an allergy affect an unborn baby?

When an allergy develops during pregnancy, the mother has a reaction to it. But the fetus will not have it, since the antibodies cannot penetrate the protective placenta. But still, the baby also experiences some complications. How does he feel:

• changed maternal health status;
• the effect of drugs that affect its blood supply;
• harmful, even dangerous effects of drugs.

Development of allergies

There are basically three main stages. In the first stage, the allergen initially enters the body. This can be pollen, food products, animal hair, cosmetics and other substances. Immune cells “recognize” foreign substances and begin producing antibodies.

At the second stage, the allergen that has entered the body binds antibodies. At the same time, cells that release active biological substances open. They are the ones that cause the main symptoms of allergies. Most often they are called mediators.

At the third stage, active substances promote vasodilation, increasing tissue permeability. Inflammation and swelling occur. If the allergen enters the bloodstream, a sharp drop in blood pressure is possible.

Prevention

And yet, how often do allergies occur during pregnancy? What to do to prevent its occurrence? First, you need to take an allergy test, which is used to determine the substances that can presumably cause this disease. And based on the evidence, an appropriate “line of behavior” is developed.

In the summer, women predisposed to allergies are not recommended to visit parks where poplars grow, various flower beds and greenhouses, and it is also undesirable to relax on the river and other bodies of water. If you want to swim, it is better to do it in the pool. During the winter season, it is useful to often walk outside and breathe fresh air. However, you should dress very warmly and forget about fashion for a while - health is more valuable.

If before a woman never wore a hat in winter, now she needs to deviate from her principles and not go outside without a hat, because during this period the body is weakened and you can easily catch a cold, which is extremely undesirable. It is also better to avoid walking at temperatures ranging from minus fifteen to twenty degrees. And if you need to go somewhere urgently, for example to a clinic, then it is better to ask your husband to take you there by car or call a taxi.

If an allergy occurs during pregnancy, what should you take for it? If a woman knows what exactly caused such a reaction in her body, then it is necessary to protect herself from this, at least for a certain period, until the baby is born. Also, do not use food products that may cause a reaction.

The most common cause of allergies is food. Therefore, it is necessary to exclude nuts, citrus fruits, smoked meats, seafood, chocolate, honey, red berries, fish and marinades from the diet. And fermented milk, butter, dietary meat, fruits and vegetables can be consumed without much concern. The main thing is that their color is not bright.

Nicotine is another negative for the fetus, so pregnant women not only should not smoke themselves, but also be in a room where there is “smoke”, it is not recommended. The house must be carried out daily wet cleaning, it is advisable to get rid of dust collectors - carpets, soft toys. If you had a reaction to fur before pregnancy, then it is better to “get rid” of your four-legged friend for a while, simply giving it to friends or relatives. If you take good care of your health, allergies will not affect your pregnancy.

How to reduce risks

In order to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction in a child, the mother needs to limit foods that stimulate it during illness. Absolute exclusion of any allergens is necessary only in case of acute exacerbation of illness in a pregnant woman. Otherwise, just eat less foods that can cause such a reaction.

A very high threat of allergenic activity is posed by:

Medium threats include:

To prevent allergies in a child, it is necessary to adjust to long-term breastfeeding. If you stop earlier, the threat increases several times.

How allergies can affect pregnancy

And yet, if such a problem befalls you - an allergy during pregnancy, how to treat it? The diagnosis itself is difficult, since the cause of the disease can be anything. Treatment is also difficult, because during it hormonal changes in the body occur, and this is quite dangerous for pregnant women.

If asthma is not treated, the fetus will begin to lack oxygen and will starve. As a result, the child lags behind in development, and premature birth may even begin. Allergies can also be inherited. The risk of developing it in a child will be 80% if both parents have it frequently. And if it happens to only one spouse, then 50%. But even if the parents are healthy, there is still a 20% chance that the child will often react to allergens.

Treatment Goals

The main goal is to safely and effectively eliminate any symptoms of OAD in pregnant women without the risk of adverse effects on the intrauterine fetus. A person’s reaction largely depends on the prescribed medications for the pathology, the therapy used and the physiological state of the body.

Treatment of allergies during pregnancy involves the use of medications prescribed by a doctor, as well as dietary supplements, vitamins and minerals. Hospitalization is prescribed only in acute cases, otherwise the pregnant woman stays at home and regularly visits the doctor.

Allergy pills during pregnancy. Are they harmful or beneficial?

It is important for a pregnant woman to remember that if she has a tendency to allergies, then it is necessary to warn her and prevent the development of the disease. If a woman still feels symptoms, then she should consult a doctor, but she should not self-prescribe allergy medications during pregnancy.

Tablets are prescribed only when there is confidence that they will not cause even the slightest harm to either the fetus or the mother. In addition, many medications are contraindicated during pregnancy, despite the fact that they are anti-allergic. There are some drugs that are allowed during pregnancy and do not harm the fetus. For example, Diphenhydramine is contraindicated, while Suprastin can be prescribed as a remedy for allergies during pregnancy. For treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor, since each woman’s body is individual and needs a special approach.

Folk remedies

No allergy medications have been used during pregnancy before. For example, to treat rhinitis, they took dry mustard, which was either poured into felt boots or glued to the heels. Ordinary kerosene also helped; before going to bed, they coated their feet with it and wrapped it in footcloths or rags on top.

If you have not escaped the fate of allergies during pregnancy, what else can you do to treat it? Fasting is also one of the ancient methods, but here you need the help of a doctor in selecting an individual diet. Very good medicines for allergies during pregnancy are herbal remedies. Both safe and effective. To treat rhinitis, you can also use ordinary wood chaga. The crushed mushroom is mixed with wormwood, yarrow and rose hips. Fill with three liters of warm water. After two hours, the infusion is boiled, covered with a lid. Then filter and add honey, cognac and aloe. Store in the refrigerator, and drink the broth 3 times a day for a week and a half - a tablespoon.

The most common diseases in pregnant women with the development of allergies

These are rhinitis, swelling, urticaria and reactions to foods. Often there is a manifestation of pseudo-allergies. The symptoms may be the same, but in fact it turns out that the woman has had intolerance to certain foods before. For example, some people cannot consume dairy products, and allergies have absolutely nothing to do with it - these are the characteristics of the body. Therefore, doctors diagnose pregnant women especially carefully to determine the exact cause of the ailment.

Allergies during pregnancy can cause other diseases, for example, severe obstruction, anaphylactic shock, vasculitis. It may even stimulate chronic diseases or cause their relapse. It has a detrimental effect on the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, nervous and cardiovascular systems and on the ENT organs.

Antiallergic drugs

Allergy tablets during pregnancy: Diphenhydramine, Pipolfen, Astemizole. The first is prescribed rarely and in small doses, as it can often cause complications. If a pregnant woman’s health may worsen without the use of medications, then Cetirizine, Claretin and Fexadin are prescribed. They can only be assigned in the 2nd or 3rd semester. And since we are discussing the topic “Allergies during pregnancy, how to treat them,” it is worth mentioning that the safest drug of all existing ones is the familiar Suprastin. And “Tavegil” can be prescribed only in some cases, since it is not suitable for everyone.

Allergies during pregnancy

During each pregnancy, the body of the expectant mother experiences enormous stress. Internal organs work at an accelerated pace, so the development of some unpleasant diseases is possible. These, in particular, include allergic processes that can occur even in a pregnant woman who has never previously suffered from such an illness.

In frequent cases, allergies during pregnancy arise as a result of the hereditary predisposition of the expectant mother’s body to pathogenic processes. Allergies during pregnancy can occur due to a sharp decrease in performance during the period of fetal development in the body of a pregnant woman. It is rare, but it still happens that allergies during pregnancy arise almost out of nowhere, that is, the body of the expectant mother has the prerequisites for the development of pathogenic processes, but they never manifested themselves before conception.

Like any other disease, allergies can be treated. But the entire therapeutic process is complicated by the fact that many medications are unacceptable for a pregnant woman to take.

Allergies during pregnancy: development and danger

An unpleasant allergic process is a particularly sensitive reaction of the body to a dominant allergen, which undermines the functioning of the immune system. There are a great many provocateurs of the disease process in nature: plant pollen, some food products, animal hair, chemical or toxic fumes, some medications and much more. The body of an individual person can react accordingly to one or another allergen that irritates it.

During periods of change, the immune system of the expectant mother is constantly in a tense state, so it is not surprising if a woman’s allergic reaction actively manifests itself both to cosmetics and to sunlight.

Allergies in pregnant women are especially dangerous in the early stages of a baby’s development. In the first trimester, the formation of tissues and internal organs begins in the fetus. But the placenta, which performs a protective function, is not yet fully formed. Any allergen or other harmful enzyme can negatively affect the development of the baby. At the same time, it is very dangerous for a pregnant woman to take antihistamines, which are prescribed to eliminate the symptoms of the allergic process.

The pathogenic process caused by allergic reactions in the body of the expectant mother can negatively affect the formation of the fetus and the course of the entire pregnancy.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction

Many people know the main signs of an allergic reaction - sneezing and a runny nose, but how can allergies manifest themselves during pregnancy?

• • Runny nose - nasal discharge during an allergic process becomes clear or serous. A runny nose becomes constant, and is almost always accompanied by sneezing. The runny nose of the expectant mother intensifies during direct exposure to the allergen and becomes dull if the allergy provocateur does not interact with the body for a sufficiently long time. The danger of a long-term runny nose has been proven; simple mucus discharge from the nose can eventually form into dangerous sinusitis and sinusitis. In addition, due to prolonged runny nose, the formation of polyps in the nose is possible.
  • Conjunctivitis - the main symptom of the disease is lacrimation. In addition to lacrimation, a pregnant woman may experience a fear of light and redness of the cornea. Conjunctivitis in most cases is accompanied by a runny nose.

• Skin rash (urticaria) - rashes of various types are most often localized in some parts of the body; if the allergen continues to affect the body of the expectant mother, then the skin rash appears throughout the body. In some cases, urticaria is accompanied by itching and peeling of the skin.

The above symptoms are mild manifestations of the allergic process. But there are also signs of allergies that pose a danger to the health and life of a pregnant woman.

• Anaphylactic shock - a woman’s blood pressure instantly drops, while blood tends to accumulate in the venous system, bronchospasm occurs and subsequent loss of consciousness. If primary and subsequent medical care is not provided to a pregnant woman in a timely manner, then such a condition threatens her death.
• Quincke's edema is an extremely life-threatening condition in which swelling of the skin of the face and neck occurs. But Quincke's edema can spread to the respiratory tract, which causes severe difficulty breathing and the subsequent threat of death due to suffocation.
• Generalized urticaria - the difference between this type of urticaria and ordinary urticaria is that the skin rash spreads over the entire surface of the body. Generalized urticaria is always accompanied by hormonal changes in the body, the negative impact of which affects the general well-being of the woman’s body and the normal functioning of internal organs. It should be noted that generalized urticaria has a chronic course, so the disease is often accompanied by itching and flaking of the skin, increased irritability, and general weakness of the body.

The effect of allergies on the body of mother and child

Allergies in pregnant women are especially dangerous in the early stages of fetal development; protective barriers have not yet formed, so pathogenic processes have the worst effect on both the development of the fetus and the well-being of the expectant mother.

In the second and third trimesters, various allergenic processes no longer pose the maximum danger, since the placenta has finally formed, thereby providing protective properties against pathogens to the fetus.

Taking antihistamines can negatively affect the health of the baby, as well as his mother, at almost any stage of pregnancy. Such medications significantly reduce the child’s development standards and also have an adverse effect on the well-being of the pregnant woman. Under the influence of antihistamines, she becomes irritable, tearfulness increases, general weakness and constant apathy are observed.

Allergy symptoms appeared. What to do?

To begin with, it is important to note that in some cases, allergies during pregnancy are a natural reaction of the body to an unusual product or substance.

For example, when an expectant mother eats a fruit that is new to her, the body may react appropriately to the unfamiliar dish. In this case, mild allergy symptoms go away on their own after some time.

It is necessary to take seriously such processes that constantly manifest themselves in the body of the expectant mother. In this case, you need to do the following:

• Visit an allergist or immunologist. The most important thing when allergic symptoms appear is to identify their root cause, and then give the woman a diagnosis. The doctor independently chooses the method of studying the symptoms of the disease. This may involve drawing blood or performing a skin test.
• Eliminate signs of illness in a timely manner. Allergies during pregnancy are complicated by the fact that the expectant mother cannot take many medications, but it is necessary to eliminate the symptoms of the disease. Only a doctor can select a treatment method, and he also prescribes a therapeutic course of taking certain anti-allergenic drugs.
• Stop contact with allergy triggers.
• Do not eat foods that are high allergens (citrus fruits and chocolate products).
• Use only natural cosmetics to care for your appearance.
• Prevent exposure of household chemicals to the skin.

Traditional allergy treatment

Since allergies during pregnancy can cause unpleasant and dangerous complications, the symptoms of the disease are treated immediately as they appear. Only a doctor can prescribe medications after examining a pregnant woman and making a diagnosis. You should not expect quick results; the healing process will be noticeable only a few days after the start of a course of use of a particular medication.

Complex therapy is used to treat the disease. A woman is prescribed anti-allergy ointments, gels or creams, which are applied to the skin when urticaria is active.

What medications can be prescribed to the expectant mother to treat the disease?

• Claritin. The drug is practically harmless, but is prescribed during pregnancy only in extreme cases.
• Suprastin. It can only be used in the most extreme cases, when the expectant mother is in a critically ill condition, thereby exceeding the risk to the fetus.
• Tavegil. The drug is prescribed only when there is no real possibility of replacing it with another drug. Tavegil has a sharply negative effect on the fetus.
• Allertek. Reception is indicated for exacerbations of the allergic process.
• Fexadine. Taking the drug is permissible if there is a threat to the life of the mother.

Dangerous medications during pregnancy:

• Diphenhydramine - causes increased excitability of the uterus, which can result in miscarriage or premature birth.
• Pipolfen has a destructive effect on the fetus.
• Astemizole - toxically destroys the fetus.
• Terfenadine - negatively affects the growth and development of the fetus.

Unconventional allergy treatment

Our grandmothers rarely turned to medications for help during the intensification of the disease; they carried out all the main therapy with improvised means. Currently, modern medicine has confidently reached a new level of treatment of diseases, but some folk recipes against allergies during pregnancy are still used effectively today.

Before taking or using any folk medicine, the expectant mother must obtain the approval of a doctor.

• Herbal decoctions taken orally actively eliminate allergy symptoms. Healing plants are: celandine, calendula, medicinal chamomile, elderberry, nettle, string.
• An ointment prepared from equal parts of alcohol and water, to which starch and glycerin are added, helps eliminate urticaria.

But it is important to know that allergies during pregnancy can occur for various reasons, so the allergen can be individual. If the expectant mother develops negative processes due to the use of this or that product, it should be urgently eliminated from the diet.

At the first manifestations of allergic processes, the expectant mother needs to visit a doctor who will identify the root cause of the disease and then prescribe the appropriate treatment. With the doctor's approval, a pregnant woman can use folk recipes to eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of the disease.

Self-medication by a pregnant woman is strictly prohibited. It is important to remember that self-prescription of medications can cause detrimental harm to the child, as well as to the health of the woman herself.

It is always important to treat the disease to the end. Even the cessation of the activity of the main symptoms is not the reason for completing the prescribed course of medicinal procedures.