CareNine is a Pregnancy Program structured to educate, guide and reassure 'mothers-to-be' with the help of counselling from Specialists; all under one roof.

CareNine:
Can pregnancy make your asthma worse?

During pregnancy, managing asthma becomes critical as it can impact both the mother’s health and the baby’s development. A common concern among pregnant women is whether pregnancy can make asthma worse. Understanding the relationship between asthma and pregnancy can help expectant mothers take the necessary steps to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

How pregnancy affects asthma?

1. Hormonal changes:

  • Pregnancy brings about significant hormonal changes that can influence asthma symptoms.
  • Some women may experience worsened asthma due to increased levels of progesterone and oestrogen, which can cause the airways to become more reactive.
  • Increased levels of progesterone and oestrogen may cause airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to increased wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath.

2. Increased respiratory demand:

  • As the baby grows, the uterus expands and puts pressure on the diaphragm, reducing lung capacity.
  • This can make breathing more difficult, especially for women with asthma, leading to more frequent or severe asthma symptoms.

3. Changes in immune response:

  • Pregnancy alters the immune system, which can affect asthma control.
  • Some women may find their asthma worsens due to increased sensitivity to allergens or infections.

4. Variation in symptom patterns:

  • Asthma symptoms can vary throughout pregnancy. It mostly worsens between weeks 29 and 36.
  • Some women may experience improvement in their symptoms, while others may notice a decline in their asthma control, especially in the second and third trimesters.

5. Weight gain:

  • Pregnancy often involves weight gain, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms in some women.
  • Excess weight can put additional strain on the lungs and airways, making it harder to breathe.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight throughout pregnancy can help reduce the risk of asthma flare-ups.

6. Respiratory infections:

  • Pregnant women are more susceptible to respiratory infections, such as colds and flu, which can trigger asthma attacks.
  • It is important to take preventive measures, such as getting vaccinated against influenza and avoiding exposure to sick individuals.
  • Prompt treatment of respiratory infections can help prevent asthma flare-ups.

Managing asthma during pregnancy

1. Regular monitoring:

  • It’s essential to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor asthma symptoms.
  • Lung function tests may be recommended to ensure that asthma is well-controlled.

2. Medication management:

  • Many asthma medications are safe to use during pregnancy but it’s crucial to consult your doctor before making any changes.
  • Inhalers and other prescribed treatments should be used as directed to keep asthma under control.

3. Avoiding triggers:

  • Identifying and avoiding asthma triggers such as dust, smoke and strong odours can help reduce the frequency of asthma attacks.
  • Pregnant women should also avoid exposure to respiratory infections by practising good hygiene and avoiding crowded places.

4. Healthy lifestyle:

  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is vital for managing asthma during pregnancy.
  • Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and ensuring adequate sleep can improve overall health and help in managing asthma symptoms.

5. Stress management:

  • Pregnancy can be a stressful time and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms.
  • Practising relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing patterns can help manage stress levels.

When to seek medical help?

  • Frequent asthma attacks: If you experience frequent or severe asthma attacks, seek medical attention immediately. Uncontrolled asthma can lead to complications such as pre-eclampsia, preterm labour or low birth weight.
  • Difficulty breathing: If you experience shortness of breath or wheezing that doesn’t improve with medication, contact your healthcare provider. This could indicate that your asthma is worsening.

Pregnancy can potentially worsen asthma in some women but with proper management, it is possible to have a healthy pregnancy. Regular monitoring, adherence to prescribed medication and lifestyle adjustments are key to keeping asthma under control throughout pregnancy.

Sources:
Cleveland Clinic
Victoria State Government
NHS