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Pregnancy and Allergies

Dear Doctor,

I'm hoping that you can help me, because this is unbearable! I'm 4 months pregnant with my 3rd child and my allergies are terrible. I need some kind of relief.

Please advise me on what I can do, or what medicines I can safely take. My Dr. suggested Benadryl, but any advice will be greatly appreciated.

Thank You.

L.G.

Thanks for asking about the safety and efficacy of allergy medications during pregnancy.

While I am unable to give you any specific medical advice over the internet, I can provide you with some general information that you may discuss with your own physician.

During pregnancy, allergy sufferers may safely take the over-the-counter chlorpheniramine. Chlorpheniramine may cause some drowsiness, however, so don't plan on doing anything that requires you to be at your best mentally when taking this histamine blocker.

Intra-nasal steroid sprays are safe during pregnancy. These steroid sprays reduce the allergic inflammation within the nose and sinus regions. The use of nasal steroid sprays should not cause any side effects throughout the body, and fortunately, they are known to be safe and effective during pregnancy.

It is important for the pregnant allergic patient to be able to breath easily through the nose and to have clear, dry sinuses. Antihistamines which contain chlorpheniramine and the prescription nasal steroids should help to relieve most allergy symptoms.

During pregnancy the tissues inside of the nose become swollen. Some allergy patients experience a plugging and stuffed up sensation beyond their usual allergy symptoms until well after delivery.

It is interesting to know that almost all allergy patients do not really know what normal breathing is. Allergy patients produce excessive mucus in the nose and lungs to the point of it becoming "normal". Having a "wet head" is NOT normal.

Be certain to discuss your symptoms and this information with your doctor. I hope that it is useful to you and your future family.

Good luck.

Steve Kagen, M.D.
Allernet.com