What to take for allergies during pregnancy. Allergy pills during pregnancy. Mild allergic reactions

During pregnancy, various health difficulties are possible for many women, but usually these are such familiar manifestations as swelling or,. If, during the flowering period of plants, an itchy rash appeared on the body, or after eating new products, swelling appeared in the area of ​​​​the face exclusively, moving to the neck - these are suspicious symptoms typical of. During pregnancy, this pathology is quite likely; it can occur even in those women who have not encountered it before pregnancy. This is due to changes in the immune system typical of gestation, due to which the mechanisms of response to external stimuli are disrupted, forming distorted and inflammatory processes in relation to certain reaction pathologies that are quite familiar in everyday life, food or therapy.

If the body reacts too sharply, with damage to its own tissues, to quite familiar substances - pollen, dust, wool, medications or food, this is called allergic reactions. And often they can cause significant harm during pregnancy if they are not properly treated and prevented, self-medicated, or simply tolerated without doing anything.

Why allergic reactions damage their own tissues and why such reactions are dangerous for pregnant women, let’s try to figure it out together, also discussing methods of proper treatment.

How important are allergies in pregnant women?

Everyone knows that taking pills during pregnancy is not advisable, but if you have allergies, sometimes you simply cannot do without them, although not all of them are allowed during pregnancy, even those that are usually used in traditional treatment(, tavegil, etc.). Allergy is a unique disease; it is associated with defects in the immune system, violations of its adequate response to external stimuli, due to which reactions are formed to substances that are quite familiar to the life and environment of a pregnant woman. Therefore, for allergy sufferers during pregnancy, problems can sharply worsen, take a more severe and pronounced course, and develop into serious complications. But even if there was no allergy before gestation, this is not insurance - its debut is quite likely during the period of gestation, if the expectant mother does not carry out adequate prevention and overloads the immune system.

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During pregnancy, allergies negatively affect health as pathological process, but its pathogenic influence is also formed due to its incorrect and irrational treatment in different trimesters.

Today, according to statistics, about a quarter of adults suffer from allergies, and among them are pregnant women. Some environmentally and industrially unfavorable areas with a special climate, big cities increases the percentage of allergy sufferers to 40% and above. On average, among pregnant women, the percentage in different age groups ranges from 15 to 30% or a little more, and over the past 10 years, an eightfold increase in sick women has been observed.

How do allergies occur during pregnancy?

Allergies are usually understood as failures or breakdowns of immune mechanisms, a sharp change in its sensitivity to substances surrounding a person in everyday life that do not cause him harm - food, wool, household products, animals, etc. In allergy sufferers, they acquire the properties of allergens, form reactions of the immune system with damage to their own tissues and the formation of inflammation.

Provocateurs of “breakdowns” in the immune system are various factors that affect the body from early childhood - unfavorable ecology, frequent colds and illnesses, poor nutrition, taking excess medications, contact with chemical compounds.

There are many women with allergies in cities with developed industry, large plants and factories that poison the atmosphere with chemical compounds. Adds to the treasury of allergy risks the dominance of various chemicals in everyday life - for cleaning, for the beauty of the body and hair, as well as the addition chemical compounds in food - preservatives, dyes, flavors, etc. All this overstimulates the immune system, causing it to work in a mode of excessive tension and constant readiness for reactions, and often there are breakdowns in reactions to compounds that are quite familiar in everyday life.

Allergies during pregnancy: definition of the concept

The immune system during pregnancy, it not only protects the mother’s body from the invasion of foreign and dangerous infectious or other objects, but is also designed to work in such a way as not to reject a fetus that is 50% foreign (due to the father’s genes). At the same time, it also needs to be protected from external dangers and infections. Under normal conditions, the immune system recognizes foreign agents, forms antibodies on them, which neutralizes them, and in this already bound form removes them from the body without damaging its own tissues.

For allergies, the same ones work immune reactions, but at the same time, as a result of the neutralization and removal of foreign substances, one’s own cells and tissues suffer, the immune system works overtime, perceiving as a danger not only infections or harmful substances, but also completely harmless, which do not cause harm to the body. They can also be perceived as foreign own tissues with allergens adhering to them - these are the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract or digestive system.

Allergic reactions during gestation can develop as acute process, with clear symptoms and fast current, or how chronic pathology, in which immune-allergic reactions last for many weeks and months. People most often suffer from allergies are: at a young age, in the period from 18 to 30 years, then the immune system gradually reduces its activity. Although in last years There has also been a tendency towards the development of allergies among women after 30 years of age; they suffer from allergies 10 times more often than it was two decades ago.

Types of allergies during pregnancy

If we talk about all types of allergic reactions as a whole, then among pregnant women there are two large groups of reactions divided according to the strength of development, effect on the body and degree of danger:

• Mild forms, usually occurring locally or limited to a certain area of ​​the body. These include allergic rhinitis or conjunctivitis, local manifestations of urticaria, contact dermatitis.
• severe and systemic reactions leading to significant changes in a woman’s condition and threatening her health and even life. These include systemic urticaria, angioedema, anaphylactic shock, seizures bronchial asthma.

Mechanisms of reactions during gestation

During pregnancy in general, immune-allergic reactions do not differ in their mechanisms; there are three key stages in the formation of an allergic reaction. The beginning of all reactions – this is the stage of primary contact with the allergen when it first enters the body.

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Allergens can be any of the substances - household, medicinal, chemical, biological compounds and cosmetics, pollen, microbes or viruses, etc.

The immune system starts the process of recognizing foreign agents, forming antibodies to these compounds, substances that neutralize a potential threat and remove them from the body. Antibodies are formed on the membranes of special immune cells(macrophages or mast cells), and long years can be stored inside the body. These mast cells are formed in the area of ​​mucous membranes and tissues, retaining the memory of all the allergens they have encountered.

During the initial contact of pregnant women with an allergenic substance, no reaction occurs; the immune system has only become familiar with the allergen and formed antibodies against it.

Second stage – these are repeated contacts of an allergen with the body of pregnant women, during which antigens (allergens) are released in the body and recognized by the immune system, with the selection of suitable antibodies for them on mast cells. When a complex is formed from an allergen with an antibody (to neutralize the danger), the mast cell is destroyed during allergies, its contents form special compounds that develop allergic reactions - these are histamine and its analogues, serotonin and other mediators of allergy and inflammation. Due to them, tissue damage occurs and the formation of an allergic reaction with all its delights - swelling, severe itching and tissue redness, malaise and systemic effects if histamine and its analogues are released into the blood plasma.

IN third stage all the effects inherent in allergies are formed - both rashes with itching and crusts, as well as tissue swelling, redness and other manifestations. Gradually, as contact with the allergen decreases and the reaction resolves, the inflammation goes away. And so on until the next time, repeated contact with the allergen. Depending on the localization of the reaction (where antibodies combine with allergens and the massive release of biologically active compounds), the severity of the reaction depends. They can be local - in the area of ​​the skin or mucous membranes, bronchi, intestines or systemic reactions.

Allergy symptoms during pregnancy

During pregnancy, reactions may be similar to those in other people, with the only difference being that the severity and tolerability, as well as the treatment options for allergies in pregnant women are limited by their condition. May stand out:

• Respiratory manifestations
• Digestive reactions
• Skin allergic processes
• Systemic reactions.

Based on the speed of development, allergic reactions of the anaphylactic (or immediate) type can be distinguished and delayed reactions that form over several hours or days and do not go away for a long time.

Local allergic reactions

The most common manifestations, which can become extremely severe in terms of tolerability during gestation, can be considered (damage to the eyes and nasopharynx) as a result of contact with pollen, dust, aerosol chemicals and some other allergens.

On the background allergic rhinitis becomes very difficult nasal breathing due to swelling and swelling of the mucous membranes, strong discharge of mucus from the nose or severe nasal congestion. Against the background of swelling and runny nose, frequent and prolonged sneezing, itching or tickling of the nose, a feeling of congestion in the sinuses, irritation are also common. back wall throat and coughing, soreness. During pregnancy, problems with free nasal breathing can lead to hypoxia, ailments, and fetal suffering in utero from oxygen deficiency.

Damage to the mucous membranes of the eyes is similar to that of the nose; allergens reach the surface of the mucous membranes and cause inflammatory reactions acute type with redness of the eyelids and their sharp swelling, dilation of the vessels of the tunica albuginea, which forms red eyes. Itching with burning in the eyes, severe lacrimation and the formation of crusts on the eyelashes in the morning are typical; photophobia is possible in bright light - the eyes hurt in bright light and the secretion of mucus increases.

It is possible that upon contact with allergens, the formation of skin lesions in the form of localized forms and other types of rash. These include small itchy spots, blisters followed by the formation of crusts, round blisters raised at the edges and without content, spots on the skin and other elements. They are unpleasant and can be subjectively difficult for the expectant mother to bear, but they do not pose a threat to her life and the fetus; they can be treated with local therapy And preventive measures, separation from the allergen.

Systemic reactions during pregnancy

Unlike local reactions, systemic manifestations are much more dangerous in terms of prognosis for the mother and fetus, they are severe allergic reactions and occur with the involvement of many organs and tissues, a sharp impairment of the condition and a risk to life without timely assistance. With such reactions, systemic therapy and resuscitation are often required to save the lives of both.

Anaphylactic shock during pregnancy

The most dangerous of allergic reactions during pregnancy is considered due to its unpredictability and speed of onset.

Most often it is formed during intramuscular or intravenous injections, used during dental treatment or other manipulations, and leads to symptoms such as:

• A sharp drop in blood pressure to unrecorded numbers
• State of stupefaction
• Severe respiratory distress due to laryngeal edema
• Skin rash and itching
• , and vomiting.

The development of shock is extremely rapid, often occurring within a couple of minutes from the moment the drugs are administered. Often it can also form due to stinging insect bites or food intake, as well as some other types of allergens. Although such reactions are rare, they require immediate resuscitation measures and there is no more than a few minutes to save the life of pregnant women.

The effect of allergies during pregnancy on the fetus

Against the background of allergic reactions of a pregnant woman, no matter what type they may be, the same allergic reactions do not form in the fetus, which is associated with the active activity of the placenta in filtering allergens that enter the mother’s body and antibodies that are formed to various types allergens.

The allergen and antibody complexes circulating in the blood, which lead to the development of negative reactions. It is due to these complexes and mediators released by immune cells that systemic or local reactions are formed.

But the conclusions that the fetus does not suffer from allergic processes developing in the mother’s body are incorrect; such reactions are no less dangerous for him than for his mother. Thus, he suffers from the action of several negative factors that form against the background of allergic reactions:

• Change in general condition pregnant due to the formation of itching and anxiety, agitation and irritability, malaise and systemic reactions, dysfunctions.
• Disturbances in the blood supply to the uterus and placenta with the fetus due to blood redistribution against the background of allergic reactions.
• He may also be harmed by taking medications.

It is important to know that some of the drugs used to treat or prevent the formation of excessive sensitivity of the immune system can lead to significant disturbances in the uteroplacental vascular system with circulatory disorders. Due to the full operation of this system, the continuous development of the fetus, active growth and formation of organs and tissues will be supported in conditions of deficiency of nutritional components and oxygen. Some medications can directly penetrate the placenta and negatively affect the formation processes of the fetus, its tissues and organs, leading to negative effects . Therefore, treatment of allergies in pregnant women is a rather complex issue, especially in the initial period of gestation.

Principles of treatment of allergies during pregnancy

Even if the allergy is local and mild, it requires compulsory treatment due to the fact that there is always a risk of reactions progressing to more severe and widespread manifestations against the background of changes in the immune system during pregnancy.

All allergic reactions should be treated immediately after they occur, but the drugs and methods are very different from those outside of gestation.

Adverse reactions to medications used in treatment and their effect on the fetus are quite likely, so it is important to treat allergies only under the supervision of a gynecologist and allergist.

Targeted and thorough treatment is especially important in women with somatic pathologies and deviations in health status that require targeted observation and constant monitoring, and the use of medications. Some of the drugs constantly taken during pregnancy can cause allergic reactions and intolerance, and some act as provocateurs of other types of allergies - even to mineral and vitamin supplements and nutrition. That's why If an allergy manifests itself or is indicated before pregnancy, a consultation with an allergist, a treatment plan and various preventive measures are necessary.

Antiallergic drugs during pregnancy

The main medications used for allergies are those that block the release of mediators by mast cells at the time of formation of antigen-antibody complexes. But many of the common drugs, known to everyone and widely used, are prohibited during gestation due to their negative effects. side effects in relation to mother and fetus.

For example, a drug such as diphenhydramine leads to sharp excitability and contractility of the uterine walls during pregnancy, which provokes premature birth, this is most dangerous against the background of its long-term use. In addition, it has a pronounced sedative effect and addiction.

All drugs with terfenadine basically lead to a negative effect on the body weight of the fetus, forming its malnutrition.

The use of Cetrin or is permissible from the second trimester and only if there is a risk of allergy that exceeds the potential effects on gestation. The use of Tavegil is permissible for health reasons from the second trimester and only in extremely short courses.

Choose medications from a wide variety antihistamines It is not easy, and this should be done by a doctor, based on the severity of the reaction, its prevalence and the timing of pregnancy. The use of these drugs does not treat allergies, but only suppresses those reactions that occur against its background, so antihistamines alone will not be enough. Depending on the woman’s condition, the doctor can use both local and systemic forms of drugs, up to hormone therapy, if there is strong vital evidence for this.

What is important when treating allergies in pregnant women?

Curing an allergy will be possible only by disconnecting from the allergen, as long as it continues to be in contact with the woman’s body; no medications will permanently and effectively eliminate the reaction. Therefore, if you know what you are allergic to, you need to eliminate this substance from your environment as much as possible, and if there is no information about the allergen, it is necessary to conduct research that will help identify allergens:

• Skin (scarification) tests with the application of skin scratches and their treatment with solutions of specified allergens. Ineffective during pregnancy and often give false results
• Blood tests, carried out in a laboratory, give accurate results, especially in combination with examination data and other laboratory indicators.

Only accurate identification of a specific substance and its removal from food, everyday life, or treatment leads to lasting results.

If it is not possible to remove the allergen from environment, for example, if it is pollen or weed dust, for the duration of the allergy you can move to a village, another city or country house to eliminate contact with the allergen.

If this is not possible, protective film sprays are used on the nasal mucosa, which reduce the severity of the reaction when going outside. In addition, the use of nasal rinses, wearing a protective mask, walking in rain and windless weather is recommended.

For the purpose of prevention, antihistamines are not used; they are indicated only for treatment. During therapy, it is necessary to create a hypoallergenic lifestyle and proper nutrition for allergies, which is important for reducing the antigenic load on a woman’s body and negative influence for the fruit.

Alena Paretskaya, pediatrician, medical columnist

Allergies during pregnancy are quite unpleasant in themselves. However, it is often accompanied by specific symptoms and gives complications. A woman may develop symptoms of rhinitis, asthma, bronchitis, allergic reactions to food, dust and wool, plants, etc. Moreover, some doctors argue that this is far from a disease, but simply the body’s reaction to various environmental factors, foods or medications .

Symptoms

According to statistics, allergies during pregnancy can vary in severity and occur in most pregnant women. Since at this moment the body is weakened, solving other pressing problems - preserving the fetus. Women often have a question: if an allergy appears during pregnancy, how to treat it?

Anything can cause an allergic reaction, and, unfortunately, the body’s predisposition to it cannot be cured. You can try to warn her by taking preventive measures. But the symptoms that characterize this or that type of allergy may not always indicate its occurrence. That is, a woman may feel some discomfort, but its cause may not be an allergy.

A runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion are called acute rhinitis. These symptoms often occur in many pregnant women. Are allergies during pregnancy always accompanied by these symptoms? It’s not at all necessary if the trees don’t bloom or fly at that time. Poplar fluff, the apartment is clean, free of dust, there are no pets in the house, then most likely it is simple cold. But it is still necessary to inform the doctor about this in order to prevent the development of the disease during this difficult period.

How can an allergy affect an unborn baby?

When an allergy develops during pregnancy, the mother has a reaction to it. But the fetus will not have it, since the antibodies cannot penetrate the protective placenta. But still, the baby also experiences some complications. How does he feel:

• changed maternal health status;
• the effect of drugs that affect its blood supply;
• harmful, even dangerous effects of drugs.

Development of allergies

There are basically three main stages. In the first stage, the allergen initially enters the body. It could be pollen food products, animal hair, cosmetics and other substances. Immune cells “recognize” foreign substances and begin producing antibodies.

At the second stage, the allergen that has entered the body binds antibodies. At the same time, cells open, releasing active biological substances. They are the ones that cause the main symptoms of allergies. Most often they are called mediators.

At the third stage, active substances promote vasodilation, increasing tissue permeability. Inflammation and swelling occur. If the allergen enters the bloodstream, it is possible sharp drop pressure.

Prevention

And yet, how often do allergies occur during pregnancy? What to do to prevent its occurrence? First, you need to take an allergy test, which is used to determine the substances that can presumably cause this disease. And based on the evidence, an appropriate “line of behavior” is developed.

In the summer, women predisposed to allergies are not recommended to visit parks where poplars grow, various flower beds and greenhouses, and it is also undesirable to relax on the river and other bodies of water. If you want to swim, it is better to do it in the pool. IN winter time It is useful to often walk down the street and breathe fresh air. However, you should dress very warmly and forget about fashion for a while - health is more valuable.

If before a woman never wore a hat in winter, now she needs to deviate from her principles and not go outside without a hat, because during this period the body is weakened and you can easily catch a cold, which is extremely undesirable. It is also better to avoid walking at temperatures ranging from minus fifteen to twenty degrees. And if you need to go somewhere urgently, for example to a clinic, then it is better to ask your husband to take you there by car or call a taxi.

If an allergy occurs during pregnancy, what should you take for it? If a woman knows what exactly caused such a reaction in her body, then it is necessary to protect herself from this, at least for a certain period, until the baby is born. Also, do not use food products that may cause a reaction.

The most common cause of allergies is food. Therefore, it is necessary to exclude nuts, citrus fruits, smoked meats, seafood, chocolate, honey, red berries, fish and marinades from the diet. And fermented milk, butter, dietary meat, fruits and vegetables can be consumed without much concern. The main thing is that their color is not bright.

Nicotine is another negative for the fetus, so pregnant women not only should not smoke themselves, but also be in a room where there is “smoke”, it is not recommended. The house must be carried out daily wet cleaning, it is advisable to get rid of dust collectors - carpets, soft toys. If before pregnancy there was a reaction to wool, then it is better to “get rid” of it for a while. four-legged friend, simply by giving it to friends or relatives. If you take good care of your health, allergies will not affect your pregnancy.

How to reduce risks

In order to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction in a child, the mother needs to limit foods that stimulate it during illness. Absolute exclusion of any allergens is necessary only in case of acute exacerbation of illness in a pregnant woman. Otherwise, just eat less foods that can cause such a reaction.

A very high threat of allergenic activity is posed by:

Medium threats include:

• a rabbit;
• pork;
• peaches;
• peas;
• Green pepper;
• turkey;
• potato;
• corn;
• cabbage;
• cranberries

To low:

• squash;
• turnip;
• zucchini;
• horse meat;
• plum;
• cucumber;
• lamb;
• bananas and apples.

To prevent allergies in a child, it is necessary to adjust to long-term breastfeeding. If you stop earlier, the threat increases several times.

How allergies can affect pregnancy

And yet, if such a problem befalls you - an allergy during pregnancy, how to treat it? The diagnosis itself is difficult, since the cause of the disease can be anything. Treatment is also difficult, because during it hormonal changes in the body occur, and this is quite dangerous for pregnant women.

If asthma is not treated, the fetus will begin to lack oxygen and will starve. As a result, the child lags behind in development, and premature birth may even begin. Allergies can also be inherited. The risk of developing it in a child will be 80% if both parents have it frequently. And if it happens to only one spouse, then 50%. But even if the parents are healthy, there is still a 20% chance that the child will often react to allergens.

Treatment Goals

The main task is safe and effective elimination any symptoms of OAD in pregnant women without the risk of adverse effects on intrauterine fetus. A person’s reaction largely depends on the prescribed medications for the pathology, the therapy used and the physiological state of the body.

Treatment of allergies during pregnancy involves the use of medications prescribed by a doctor, as well as dietary supplements, vitamins and minerals. Hospitalization is prescribed only in acute cases, otherwise the pregnant woman stays at home and regularly visits the doctor.

Allergy pills during pregnancy. Are they harmful or beneficial?

It is important for a pregnant woman to remember that if she has a tendency to allergies, then it is necessary to warn her and prevent the development of the disease. If a woman still feels symptoms, then she should consult a doctor, but she should not self-prescribe allergy medications during pregnancy.

Tablets are prescribed only when there is confidence that they will not cause even the slightest harm to either the fetus or the mother. In addition, many medications are contraindicated during pregnancy, despite the fact that they are anti-allergic. There are some drugs that are allowed during pregnancy and do not harm the fetus. For example, "Diphenhydramine" is contraindicated, and "Suprastin" can be prescribed as a remedy for allergies during pregnancy. For treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor, since each woman’s body is individual and needs a special approach.

Folk remedies

No allergy medications have been used during pregnancy before. For example, to treat rhinitis, they took dry mustard, which was either poured into felt boots or glued to the heels. Ordinary kerosene also helped; before going to bed, they coated their feet with it and wrapped it in footcloths or rags on top.

If you have not escaped the fate of allergies during pregnancy, what else can you do to treat it? Fasting is also one of the ancient methods, but here you need the help of a doctor in selecting an individual diet. Very good medicines for allergies during pregnancy - herbal teas. Both safe and effective. To treat rhinitis, you can also use ordinary wood chaga. The crushed mushroom is mixed with wormwood, yarrow and rose hips. Fill with three liters of warm water. After two hours, the infusion is boiled, covered with a lid. Then filter and add honey, cognac and aloe. Store in the refrigerator, and drink the broth 3 times a day for a week and a half - a tablespoon.

The most common diseases in pregnant women with the development of allergies

These are rhinitis, swelling, urticaria and reactions to foods. Often there is a manifestation of pseudo-allergies. The symptoms may be the same, but in fact it turns out that the woman has had intolerance to certain foods before. For example, some people cannot consume dairy products, and allergies have absolutely nothing to do with it - these are the characteristics of the body. Therefore, doctors diagnose pregnant women especially carefully to determine the exact cause of the ailment.

Allergies during pregnancy can cause other diseases, for example, severe obstruction, anaphylactic shock, vasculitis. It may even stimulate chronic diseases or cause their relapse. Harmfully affect the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, nervous and cardiovascular system and to ENT organs.

Antiallergic drugs

Allergy tablets during pregnancy: Diphenhydramine, Pipolfen, Astemizole. The first is prescribed rarely and in small doses, as it can often cause complications. If a pregnant woman’s well-being may worsen without the use of medications, then Cetirizine, Claretin and Fexadin are prescribed. They can only be assigned in the 2nd or 3rd semester. And since we are discussing the topic “Allergies during pregnancy, how to treat them,” it is worth mentioning that the most safe drug Of all the existing ones - the familiar "Suprastin" to everyone. And "Tavegil" can be prescribed only in some cases, since it is not suitable for everyone.

More than 30% of pregnant women suffer from allergies. This is a pathogenic reaction hypersensitivity the body to certain substances from the environment (allergens). Upon repeated contact with the irritant, an immune response occurs that has different manifestations- from rash to severe conditions. In this case, the reaction can occur immediately after contact or after several days. In pregnant women, allergies manifest themselves as skin rash, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, exacerbation of bronchial asthma, development of Quincke's edema.

Causes

Pregnancy is a time of intense changes in the female body, during which there is an increased production of biologically active substances, including hormones. They have a strong effect on the immune system and contribute to the occurrence or worsening of an allergic reaction.

By their nature, the main hormones produced during pregnancy are steroids, which normally suppress the allergic reaction. But in the body of a pregnant woman, the fetus is considered a foreign body. To prevent its rejection, the immune system weakens its action. Therefore, a woman becomes more sensitive to the influence of external allergens.

The most common irritants are:

• pollutants (car exhaust gases, industrial emissions);
• chemicals (cosmetics, pesticides, drugs, food additives);
• pollen of flowering plants;
• insect bites;
• animal hair;
• hair;
• food products (nuts, eggs).

During pregnancy, it is important to be aware of cross allergies. It lies in the fact that if a person is intolerant to a substance, a reaction may occur to a stimulus of similar structure. For example, if you are allergic to cow's milk, an immune response to soy, milk from other animals, and beef may develop.

Effect on the fetus

An allergy that appears on the skin during pregnancy in the form of a rash or hives does not affect the health of the developing child. Dangerous for both the fetus and the mother is the development of shortness of breath and difficulty breathing against the background of a skin rash.. Lack of oxygen can cause fetal death. In this case, it is extremely important to seek medical help immediately.

Symptoms

Facial allergies during pregnancy can manifest themselves in the form of pinpoint rashes, hives, dry skin, swelling of facial tissues, and itching at the site of the rash.

Urticaria, the formation of itchy blisters against a background of swelling skin. Severe course may be complicated by the development of Quincke's edema. In this condition, the paraorbital areas and lips swell, and swelling of the larynx may occur, which will lead to difficulty breathing.

Skin allergies during pregnancy are often accompanied by the development of allergic conjunctivitis and rhinitis. This is manifested by redness of the sclera, increased tearing, and copious serous discharge from the nose.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of the disease is based on allergy history data, general examination and laboratory research methods.

The presence of allergies is clarified before pregnancy, with parents and close relatives. Find out the possible factors that provoke its development. When examining, pay attention to the nature of the rash, the presence of swelling of the face, dry skin, the appearance of pain in the eyes, lacrimation, redness of the sclera, and prolonged runny nose.

They take general analysis blood, in which the level of eosinophils is increased due to allergies. You can take a scraping from the elements of the rash to determine the presence of pathogenic flora.

Scratch tests to isolate a specific allergen are contraindicated during pregnancy. But to determine specific IgE in the body, you can perform a PAST test.

The accuracy of the study is very high. Drug antiallergic treatment does not affect the result and is safe for a pregnant woman, since the determination of the antigen occurs in vitro.

A woman's blood is taken from a vein and placed into test tubes with various irritants. If there is an antibody to an allergen in the blood, they combine and form an antigen-antibody complex. These complexes are counted. Their high level indicates there is a problem. The method allows you to determine allergies to dust, food, pollen, latex, mold spores, and animal hair.

Therapy

The best treatment for allergies during pregnancy is to completely eliminate contact with the allergen. To do this, you need to take the following measures:

Traditional medicine

Drug therapy should be carried out strictly under the supervision of a doctor, since many drugs can have a detrimental effect on the fetus. It is not recommended to treat allergies yourself.

2nd generation antihistamines: Cetirizine and Loratadine are considered relatively safe. 1st generation antihistamines and intranasal agents are contraindicated.

To relieve itching, relieve skin symptoms You can use preparations for external use. For the sake of safety for the fetus, medications containing hormones are not recommended, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. Of the approved ointments you can use: Bepanten, D-panthenol, Zinc ointment.

Folk remedies

Rashes on the face may go away on their own after eliminating allergens. To relieve symptoms, the following methods are used:

Any home method or remedy must be agreed upon with a gynecologist.

Prevention measures

Since pregnant women are more susceptible to allergic reactions, the following recommendations should be followed:

If symptoms of an allergic reaction appear, you should consult a doctor and not self-medicate.

This disease is accompanied by rhinitis, sinusitis, and dermatitis. Although many doctors believe that allergies are not a disease, but just the body’s reaction to environmental factors. The human immune system identifies them as foreign agents. According to statistics, allergic conditions affect half of the world's population. Among them are pregnant women. Gynecologists state that allergic reactions occur in 15-20% of all pregnant women. A natural question arises for them: how does this condition affect the future baby? What is the threat to him? How should you behave if you have an allergy? Let's answer these questions.

Pregnancy and allergies

Doctors explain that each woman’s allergens can be different substances. Unfortunately, genetic predisposition allergies cannot be cured. It is only possible to eliminate the signs that accompany it. But not in every case the symptoms will indicate its occurrence. Nasal congestion and sneezing may occur in half of expectant mothers. And it’s worth talking about allergic rhinitis only when trees and shrubs are blooming.

Bronchial asthma is a more serious allergic disease. In itself, it is not a contraindication for bearing a child, but nevertheless, the obstetrician-gynecologist must be informed about it to ensure proper control.

If we talk specifically about the effect of allergies on the fetus, then it does not pose a danger to intrauterine development. After all, allergens that affect a pregnant woman do not penetrate through the placenta to the baby.

If the expectant mother is allergic, then the baby’s predisposition to allergic diseases increases. As for the influence on him painful condition mother, the main thing is that for her treatment the doctor selects safe medications that do not reach him through the placenta. It is very important that a woman avoids contact with allergens in the first trimester of pregnancy. After all, it is during this period that his systems and organs are formed. Therefore, its use is highly undesirable. We must try to eliminate all factors that can provoke an exacerbation of allergies.

Treatment and prevention of allergies in expectant mothers

If, however, its manifestations could not be avoided, then it is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible. He will prescribe therapy that will not harm the unborn baby and his mother. Most drugs traditionally used to eliminate allergic conditions are contraindicated during pregnancy. These are Astemizole, Pipolfen, Diphenhydramine.

When a woman’s condition poses a greater threat than the expected harm from medications, then Cetirizine, Claritin, Fexadin are prescribed. They are prescribed to expectant mothers only in the second or third trimesters. Tavegil is used very rarely.

In most cases, women with allergies cannot avoid taking medications. Then they need to be selected together with an allergist, while comparing the harm and benefits of taking medications.

If the expectant mother is prone to allergic reactions, then preventing them is very important. First of all, it is necessary for the woman to undergo an allergy test. Such research helps to identify the allergen and develop a course of action if necessary.

If the expectant mother is prone to allergic reactions, she should adhere to a hypoallergenic diet. Its essence is to exclude seafood, nuts, honey, citrus fruits, marinades, smoked meats, exotic fruits, carbonated drinks, and sweets from the menu. Without fear, the expectant mother can introduce into the diet butter, dairy products, dietary meat in the form of rabbit, veal, turkey, chicken. It is recommended to eat fruits and vegetables that are not brightly colored. Nutritionists advise including oatmeal, millet, cabbage, zucchini, legumes, and greens in the menu.

Natural antihistamines during this period vitamins B12 and C can serve, pantothenic acid, zinc.

It would be useful to recall that women with a predisposition to allergies should part with bad habits, regularly carry out wet cleaning in the house, get rid of things that collect dust, as well as pets.

The changes that occur in the body of a woman expecting a baby affect all systems and organs. Pregnancy hormones also affect the immune system.

As a rule, when talking about pregnancy, they often mean a decrease in immunity expectant mother and its vulnerability to viruses and infections.

However, acute immune reactions often occur during pregnancy. In this case, the allergen may be a product or phenomenon that has not previously caused allergic reactions in a woman.

What is an allergy?

Immune cells are designed to protect our body from dangerous substances. An allergic reaction is the work of “especially zealous” immune cells that see danger where it should not exist.

As a result, in response to consuming an allergen product, the same reactions occur that would protect against a virus or splinter: swelling and inflammation, lacrimation and runny nose, and the temperature may rise.

During pregnancy, when all body systems work to ensure the health of the fetus, the likelihood of allergies increases significantly.

Women suffering from seasonal hay fever or urticaria should be especially careful; during pregnancy, allergies may become more severe than usual.

Allergic reactions can vary in symptoms, rate of increase and organs affected. Doctors distinguish several subgroups of allergic manifestations.

1. Acute allergic reactions.

These are life-threatening conditions, a manifestation of immediate hypersensitivity). Among them:

• Quincke's edema;
• anaphylactic shock;
• exudative erythema;
• atopic bronchial asthma.

1. Mild reactions.

They do not pose a direct threat to life, but can lead to chronic form. These include:

• non-viral conjunctivitis,
• localized urticaria.

Causes

The causes of the disease depend on the type of allergen and the presence (or absence) of allergies in the woman before pregnancy.

Some allergens provoke an acute reaction upon first contact.

This type of reaction can be caused by exotic fruits, pollen, some types of cosmetics.

Another type of allergens (food, some types of medications, dust, fluff and fur of pets, etc.) leaves toxic breakdown products in the body, which gradually accumulate and only then cause allergies.

This is why there may be a reaction to seemingly familiar products. Quite often, pregnant women are allergic to strawberries, tomatoes, chocolate, honey, fluff, sun, and washing powders.

During pregnancy, identifying a specific allergen can be especially difficult, since the fetus itself and its waste products can act as toxins for the mother’s body.

Allergy is a total reaction to pregnancy-dependent and independent factors.

Symptoms

Depending on the severity of the process and its localization, the following table can be compiled of the most typical allergic reactions in pregnant women.

Acute allergic reactions

• Quincke's edema.

Swelling of the mucous membranes, which may spread to the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Often localized in the respiratory tract (dangerous from asphyxia), genitals.

May also affect joints (pain, stiffness) or spread to mucous membranes gastrointestinal tract(pain, " ", ).

• Generalized urticaria.

Severe damage to large areas of skin with severe itching and the appearance of blisters with bright (erythematous) edges. Blisters and skin thickening tend to coalesce.

Unlike milder, localized hives, this type of allergy is not usually associated with previous tactile contact with an allergen.

• Anaphylactic shock.

May be caused by medications cosmetic product, plant pollen. Acute condition develops within an hour after contact with the allergen (usually in the first 5 minutes).

Anaphylactic shock is often accompanied by other allergic manifestations- swelling of the larynx or urticaria, all reactions can be observed simultaneously, which significantly complicates the woman’s condition.

Mild allergic reactions

• Allergic rhinitis.

May be caused by seasonal flowering of plants, house dust or animal hair, may also be a manifestation of toxicosis in pregnant women. The disease is manifested by swelling of the nasal mucosa, congestion or secretion of copious mucous secretions, itching in the nose and sneezing.

• Allergic conjunctivitis.

It usually has the same causes as allergic rhinitis, but the eye area is affected: swelling of the eyelids, redness and itching, blood vessels protrude eyeball, there may be lacrimation and photophobia.

• Localized urticaria.

It usually appears at the site of contact with the allergen, but can appear without it. Blisters and itching appear on a specific area of ​​the body or limb, but do not affect the entire skin. Allergies can appear on the arms, legs, stomach, neck, chest area or even on the face.

Effect on the fetus?

In most cases, a mother's allergies are not dangerous for the fetus. The placenta takes on the function of filtering possible toxins.

But in case of acute reactions, life-threatening maternal or extensive edema that can affect circulation, the fetus may also experience the secondary effects of maternal allergies.

If the mother’s allergy takes a chronic course, then the fetus feels changes in her body. This may be an increased need for oxygen due to nasal congestion, or a stressful condition caused by incessant itching and discomfort.

The side effects of some antihistamines can be more dangerous for the fetus than the feeling of maternal anxiety.

Therefore, treatment of allergic reactions during pregnancy is mainly symptomatic.

However, if acute allergies occur, the health and life of the mother comes first. A woman should not resist treatment, since hypotension and breathing problems will become dangerous for the fetus over time.

In case of Quincke's edema or anaphylactic shock doctors use their entire arsenal necessary medications for treatment. After the threat to the woman's life has passed (normalized arterial pressure, swelling of the larynx and gastrointestinal tract subsides) move to symptomatic treatment residual phenomena.

If you are allergic to later pregnancy, you must obtain a doctor's opinion that you do not have any skin diseases.]

This certificate is required for admission to the maternity hospital. If you cannot confirm the nature of urticaria or eczema on your skin, you will have to give birth in a maternity hospital for infectious patients.

Treatment

There is a high probability that the child of allergic parents will also have a tendency to allergies.

Therefore, preventive treatment of the mother is not only the key to a successful pregnancy, but also concern for the future health of the child.

A hypoallergenic diet will protect mother and baby from unnecessary troubles and rid the body of possible toxins. Moreover, it is based on the principles healthy eating, excludes fried and spicy food, that is, it is beneficial for the mother and fetus.

A strict version of the hypoallergenic diet involves limiting protein foods. But if a woman has switched to this diet for preventive purposes, the section of protein products can be expanded; they are necessary during the period of active fetal growth.

If possible, you should get rid of pets or give them to relatives for a while. Regularly wet-clean your home and remove long-pile carpets. All this good prevention allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis.

The dietary vagaries of pregnant women are known. But if possible, it is better to refrain from exotic (especially previously unfamiliar) fruits during this period. Some families, out of concern for the health of the mother and unborn baby, decide to temporarily change their unfavorable native climate to warmer countries.

At first glance, this has its advantages. But a change of place of residence is associated with a change in diet, water quality, surrounding insects and plants - and all of this together and individually can become an impetus for the development of an allergic reaction.

Vitamins can cause allergies, but sometimes they also help combat them.

Vitamins C and P affect vascular permeability and reduce the frequency of respiratory events. Vitamin B12 is a natural antihistamine and helps with dermatitis. Fish fat facilitates the course of inflammatory processes.

Personal experience

I am 39 years old. I am a mother of four children. I am not prone to allergies, and never have been. This is what I thought until my 4th pregnancy. When I was 5 months old, I got sick. At first there was severe runny nose, then the cough started. It seemed like a common cold, I thought when I went to the doctor. Well, or, in extreme cases, inflammation, which I didn’t even want to think about.

But when the doctor began to examine me, it turned out that there was no inflammation and that I had some kind of unusual cough, and my throat was red. The therapist said that I had allergies, which I categorically denied. But, after undergoing extensive tests, it turned out that my eosinophils in my blood were already off the charts (substances that confirm the presence of an allergic reaction in the body). I was shocked. From where and to what.

The doctor said that it is impossible to treat with drugs now. She didn’t even advise determining what for, since she wouldn’t treat me, it was impossible. I didn’t like it, but I trusted her, because she is a doctor. She also did not prescribe a diet. She prescribed gargling with a decoction of string, for cough “Mukaltin”. In general, she said to be treated with folk remedies that are not harmful.

It didn't help me very much. I had such a suffocating cough that I was surprised how the fetus was still holding up after this. All my muscles ached, including my abdominal area. The doctor then allowed me to take Diazolin, and then only a child’s dose.

And it didn't really help. Time just passed, and the cough subsided on its own. Naturally, I did the assigned procedures, even though I thought that they didn’t really help me. No complications were observed until the end of pregnancy.

For expectant mothers, I advise that in case of any ailments during pregnancy and not only, immediately go to an appointment only with an experienced doctor. By the way, I decided never to contact this therapist. Later, when I told her, everyone was surprised how I could trust her.

During pregnancy, there are many external and internal factors that can cause an allergic reaction in a woman. The best remedy is prevention and it should begin at the stage of pregnancy planning.

If the disease cannot be avoided, then only a doctor can prescribe a treatment that will be effective for the mother and at the same time safe for the fetus.