Relief During Pregnancy - Nasal Congestion

“Pregnancy rhinitis,” her doctor had called it with a cheerful shrug during the last visit. “Just one of those things. Extra blood flow, swollen membranes. It’ll pass after delivery.”

“Oh, Mark,” she breathed. “I can breathe.” nasal congestion relief during pregnancy

Unlike a viral infection or seasonal allergies, pregnancy rhinitis is driven by the dramatic hormonal shifts of gestation. Elevated levels of estrogen and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) increase blood flow throughout the body, including to the mucous membranes lining the nose. This increased blood volume causes the nasal tissues to swell, much like the swelling in your ankles or fingers. Additionally, these hormones can trigger your nasal glands to produce more mucus. The result is a stuffy, runny nose, post-nasal drip, and sneezing—without the fever, aches, or itchy eyes that accompany a cold or allergy. “Pregnancy rhinitis,” her doctor had called it with

Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Consult a doctor. It’ll pass after delivery

Elena lay propped up against a mountain of pillows, her mouth slightly open, breathing with the heavy, wheezing rasp of a congested otter. Her nose, usually a feature she was quite fond of, felt less like a respiratory organ and more like a cement block plastered to her face.

“I know. But you can’t sleep if you can’t breathe. Come on.” He threw the covers back and extended a hand.