During pregnancy, previous allergic reactions you may have had can sometimes lessen and in other cases can worsen. It is important to continue using medication to prevent or reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions when pregnant. The changing levels of hormones that occur during pregnancy are usually the underlying reasons for changes within allergic reactions. Therefore, it is highly important that you continue to use medications to keep allergic reactions at bay. For example, if you suffer from asthma, it is necessary to continue to use inhalers to prevent an asthma attack.
If you have any concerns about the type of medication you are using and the affect this might have on pregnancy, it would be wise to contact your doctor in order to discuss your medication. This way, you can discuss your treatment options about a given allergy. Your doctor will be able to advise you about the correct medications to take during pregnancy and which medication may adversely affect your pregnancy or interfere with breast feeding. However, if you are at a stage where you are planning on becoming pregnant, speaking to your doctor beforehand might appease any worries you may have about certain medications before your pregnancy begins.
Although, it is generally advisable not to take medications during pregnancy, this can be unavoidable at times. Over the counter antihistamines are available at most pharmacies and are safe to use throughout pregnancy in order to reduce symptoms of allergic reactions. Again tell your pharmacist that you are pregnant.
Food hypersensitivity and intolerances have increased amongst the population. At times, food hypersensitivity can have a negative effect on a person’s nutritional intake. Food intolerances can cause a huge amount of discomfort and trigger foods should be avoided in order to prevent discomforting symptoms. However avoiding certain foods or food groups can cause nutritional deficiencies which are particularly concerning in pregnancy so make sure that any food intolerances are reported to your doctor who can keep an eye on what you are eating and advise how to ensure you and your unborn baby are benefiting from the correct nutrition essential for a healthy mother and baby.
Overall, it is important to keep in mind that the hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy can have an impact on allergic reactions and can either relieve symptoms or exacerbate them. It is advisable to speak to your GP when becoming pregnant if you already suffer from allergic reactions. It is also important to discuss your nutritional intake with a medical practitioner who may refer you to a nutritionist in order to ensure that you are providing your body with the right nutrients for a healthy pregnancy.
