Are Inhaler Safe During Pregnancy

Are Inhaler Safe During Pregnancy - It is very important to give full attention to all the medication a person takes during Pregnancy. Respiratory illnesses like COPD and asthma are quite common in India and they need expert help to deal with prevention. That’s why we are here to discuss a critical question “Are Inhalers Safe During Pregnancy”.  Inhalers help in coping with symptoms of asthma such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and inflammation. 

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Rising Cases of Respiratory Illnesses In Females In India

There is no doubt that India is experiencing a surge of respiratory patients at a tremendous rate. There are over 33% of cases of COPD due to air pollution, about 25% due to household air pollution, and 21% due to smoking. According to the study, lung disease affects men and women differently. Respiratory illnesses are more prevalent in younger women whereas older females are at higher risk of asthma. Women’s lungs are 10% smaller than men and it causes much worse symptoms eventually. Also, hormones like estrogen and testosterone have a vital part to play in the degree of severe symptoms. Also, due to lack of awareness regarding respiratory illnesses in India leads to no early diagnosis, especially in females. There are some important things to protect yourself from respiratory illnesses-

1. Avoid smoking
2. Exercise regularly
3. Reduce exposure to pollutants
4. Practice breathing exercises
5. Eat healthy food

What is the Risk of Having Asthma During Pregnancy?

The risk factor varied from one woman to another. There is no definite pattern for asthma during pregnancy. However, asthma may worsen in 1 out of 3 women. Usually, the symptoms may worsen between weeks 29 and 36 of pregnancy. The last month of pregnancy is less severe and women do not suffer any symptoms during labor and delivery. Also, the degree of severity of asthma remains the same in other pregnancies as well. Following is the list of complications in pregnancy that may arise due to asthma- 

1. High blood pressure
2. A premature Delivery 
3. A cesarean delivery

But these cases account for very small and most of the pregnancies go normal even if you have asthma. However, studies and research need to be done to know the effects of asthma during pregnancy and after. So, this may be true for some or for others, may not. 

Is Inhaler Safe During Pregnancy?

Inhalers are quite a common and easy-to-use device in case of respiratory illnesses like asthma and COPD. Most inhaler medications are safe to use during pregnancy at low doses. But it is very important to meet healthcare personnel as there might be some extra factors that should be taken into consideration. Asthma or COPD may be worse during pregnancy due to a lack of oxygen. So, it is important to control asthma as it may help in lowering other complications of pregnancy. Usually, doctors recommend a small dosage during pregnancy to avoid any chance that may affect the baby’s growth. There are some points that you must take care of during pregnancy-

1. Visit your doctor at regular intervals of time and only take prescribed medication.
2. Recognize the asthma triggers and keep attention to avoid any of those triggers.
3. Take the flu vaccine to lower the risk of an asthma attack. 
4. You can even take an allergy shot if asthma is triggered due to allergens such as dust mites, cockroaches, pollen, etc. 

List of Asthma Medications Safe During Pregnancy?

• Glucocorticoids - It is widely used for treating symptoms of asthma. For pregnant women, glucocorticoids are generally safe for the baby as well as for the mother. It comes in pill form and can be combined with an inhaler such as a bronchodilator. There is no life-threatening risk for the pregnant lady and the baby by having oral glucocorticoids. Both budesonide and fluticasone inhalers are safe to use during pregnancy. 

• Theophylline - It has been a recommended inhaler for years and it is safe for pregnant ladies. But it has not been widely used since the introduction of glucocorticoids in the market. 

• Cromolyn - It is a safe medication during pregnancy but it has a low effective rate. Also, cromolyn is mostly available in the nebulized form in many parts of the world.

• Anti-Leukotriene - Montelukast is one of the common anti-leukotriene recommended by doctors during pregnancy. There are no major risk factors associated with using these medications. 

Conclusion

So, this is the full detailed information on the topic “Are inhalers safe during pregnancy”. There are many misconceptions regarding asthma and pregnancy. One should visit a doctor to get the best advice and prescribe medication. Asthma is not a reason for stopping yourself from having an amazing pregnancy experience. Most inhalers are risk-free and pose no harm to the baby and the mother.