Introduction :
Asthma is a chronic lung disease causing breathing difficulties, continuous coughing, and wheezing. Keeping asthma under control is very important during pregnancy because there will be a reduced oxygen supply during an asthma attack, affecting the baby's growth. Consulting a physician before conceiving is advisable.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Asthma?
Signs and symptoms vary from person to person, which includes:
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Shortness of breath.
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Pain or chest tightness.
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Coughing or wheezing, especially at night and early morning.
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Trouble sleeping due to breathing problems.
How Does Asthma Affect Pregnancy?
If the asthma is under control, it does not cause any harm during pregnancy. If asthma is out of control, there is a high chance of health problems. Preeclampsia is a condition that affects patients with uncontrolled asthma. It increases blood pressure and affects the normal functioning of organs like the liver and kidney.
If asthma is not under control, the baby may not receive enough oxygen, which may lead to birth problems like :
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Premature birth (birth that occurs before the 37th week of pregnancy).
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Poor growth and development.
What Is the Treatment for Asthma During Pregnancy?
Treatment for asthma in pregnant women is similar to people who are not pregnant.
Management of Asthma During Pregnancy Includes :
Monitoring Lung Function:
- Normal functioning of the lungs is essential for the well-being of the mother and the baby. Spirometry is a simple test carried out in hospitals to monitor the condition of the lungs by measuring the amount of air the patient can breathe out in one forced breath.
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The condition of asthma can be monitored at home using a device called a peak flow meter. Depending on the patient's asthma status, the physician will recommend using the machine once or twice a day. A decrease in peak expiratory flow rate indicates worsening asthma conditions in patients and needs an immediate consultation.
Monitor Fetus Health :
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Non-stress testing is done after 32 weeks of pregnancy for women with asthma. The test is done to assess the baby's condition and heart rate.
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Ultrasound is done to check the baby's growth and the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby.
To Avoid Triggers :
Many factors trigger asthma attacks, which can be avoided by the following:
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Stay away from allergens that may cause asthma symptoms, like pet dander, strong perfume, house dust, tobacco smoke, and pollutants.
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Avoid smoking and stay away from smokers.
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Flu shots are recommended during winter as flu can worsen asthma symptoms.
Medications :
Most asthma medicines are safe to use during the pregnancy period. The patient can proceed with recommended asthma treatment throughout the pregnancy. Using systemic glucocorticoids (a type of steroid) during pregnancy can increase the risk of oral clefts, low birth weight in babies and preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and adrenal problems in mothers. Inhalation drugs are mostly recommended because they have more targeted effects and very little entry into the bloodstream. It is advised to limit the medication during the first trimester as it is the developing period of the baby. The medicine used during pregnancy is recommended during labor and nursing.
How to Prevent Complications Caused by Asthma During Pregnancy?
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Smoking will worsen asthma, and it can also affect the baby's growth. Therefore, smoking should be avoided.
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Smoke, dust, and other irritants can trigger asthma, so staying away from such triggering agents is crucial.
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Take the prescribed medicine without fail. If there are any issues arising while taking medications, consult your doctor.
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Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disease that can cause stomach irritation and heartburn. GERD can worsen asthma, so it is advisable to control it by eating small meals, elevating the head of the bed, waiting at least a few hours before lying down, and avoiding spicy food.
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If the asthma is getting worse, contact your doctor immediately.
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Do exercise regularly and eat healthily.
How to Prepare for Pregnancy if a Patient Has Asthma?
If a patient has a history of asthma, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist and asthma specialist before becoming pregnant. They will look at the patient's medical history and medications and decide on the treatment plan and if any further tests are required before conceiving a baby. Because there is a high chance of variation in asthma conditions during pregnancy, prior medical advice will be helpful for a safe pregnancy.
Do Asthma Symptoms Change During Pregnancy?
The cause for the changes in condition during pregnancy is still unknown. There are high chances of symptom variations during pregnancy; sometimes, it may get better and sometimes worse. It is recommended to get a flu shot during winter because flu can worsen asthma symptoms. Also, take steps to control heartburn, which can aggravate asthma symptoms.
Are Asthma Medications Safe During Breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is encouraged in mothers with asthma symptoms because it does not cause any harm to babies. But asthma medications do get into the breastmilk in a very less quantity and are generally considered safe for babies. If mothers are under a high dose of asthma medication like Theophylline, then the baby may experience some irritation and sleeping difficulties. To prevent such situations consider consuming asthma medication 3 to 4 hours before the next breastfeeding. It is advisable to consult a doctor and make some variations in medication before breastfeeding.
Can Babies Obtain Asthma From the Mother?
There are chances of developing asthma if a parent or siblings have a history of asthma. If a mother smokes during pregnancy, there are chances for a baby to get asthma. Consult with your physician regarding any concerns during pregnancy.
What Are the Effects of Severe, Uncontrolled Asthma on Babies?
An adequate oxygen supply is required for the growth and development of the baby. Severe, uncontrolled asthma can decrease the oxygen supply, affecting the baby's oxygen flow. This may lead to growth retardation or other health complications.
Conclusion :
Asthma during pregnancy does not cause any harmful effects on the mother and baby if the mother follows her medication closely and does her regular medical check-up. Sudden discontinuation of drugs can affect both mother and baby. Consult and discuss with a doctor the concern you have before getting pregnant.
