What to Know About Asthma During Pregnancy?

Asthma is a common respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it is no exception during pregnancy. Asthma can cause various complications during pregnancy, including premature delivery, low birth weight, and preeclampsia.

It is essential to manage asthma during pregnancy to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. However, managing asthma during pregnancy can be challenging as many asthma medications have potential risks for the developing foetus. 

In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about asthma during pregnancy, including managing asthma symptoms, the risks associated with asthma medications, and how to ensure a healthy pregnancy for both the mother and the baby.

Asthma and Pregnancy

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the airways and causes inflammation, narrowing, and excessive mucus production, leading to breathing difficulties. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 8% of women of childbearing age have asthma, and many women experience a change in their asthma symptoms during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, the body undergoes several physiological changes that can affect the respiratory system, including the lungs. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the airways to become more reactive, leading to worsening asthma in pregnancy. Additionally, the growing uterus can pressure the diaphragm and reduce lung capacity, further exacerbating asthma symptoms. 

Poorly controlled asthma in pregnancy can lead to several complications, including preterm delivery, low birth weight, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. Studies have shown that uncontrolled asthma can also affect the baby's lung development, increasing the risk of asthma and other respiratory problems later in life. Therefore, it is crucial to managing asthma in pregnancy effectively during pregnancy to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

It is important to note that not all women with asthma experience worsening symptoms during pregnancy. Some women may experience improved asthma symptoms during pregnancy, while others may not experience any changes at all. However, it is essential to work closely with healthcare providers to monitor asthma symptoms and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.

Risks Associated with Asthma Medications During Pregnancy

The risks associated with asthma medications during pregnancy can vary depending on the medication, dosage, and stage of pregnancy. Some medications can cross the placenta and affect the developing foetus, while others may have no effect at all. Some of the potential risks associated with asthma medications during pregnancy include:

1. Birth Defects: Some studies have suggested that certain asthma medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and oral corticosteroids, may increase the risk of cleft lip, palate, and other birth defects.
2. Preterm Delivery: Studies have shown that women who use certain asthma medications, such as short-acting beta-agonists (SABA), may have a higher risk of preterm delivery.
3. Low Birth Weight: Some studies have suggested that using certain asthma medications, such as oral corticosteroids, may increase the risk of low birth weight.
4. Foetal Growth Restriction: Foetal growth restriction is a condition in which the foetus does not grow normally. Some studies have suggested that using certain asthma medications, such as oral corticosteroids, may increase the risk of foetal growth restriction.

Chronic Asthma

Chronic asthma is a respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a long-term condition characterized by inflammation of the airways, which leads to narrowing the airways, increased mucus production, and breathing difficulties. Chronic asthma can be challenging to manage, requiring long-term management to control symptoms effectively.

Symptoms: Symptoms of chronic asthma can vary in severity and frequency. Common symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. Various factors, including allergens, pollutants, cold air, exercise, and respiratory infections can trigger symptoms. 

Treatment: Chronic asthma is complex, and working closely with healthcare providers to manage symptoms is essential. The primary goal of treatment is to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, environmental management, and lifestyle changes.

Asthma Treatment

The goal of asthma treatment is to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations. The following are the key elements of asthma treatment:

1. Medications: There are two categories of medications for asthma treatment: quick-relief medications and long-term control medications. Quick-relief medications provide rapid relief of symptoms during an asthma attack, while long-term control medications are taken daily to control inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms from occurring. Common medications include short-acting beta-agonists (SABA), inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), and leukotriene modifiers.
2. Environmental management: Environmental triggers, such as pollen, dust, and pet dander, can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Avoiding triggers can reduce the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms. Environmental management strategies can include using an air purifier, vacuuming regularly, and washing bedding in hot water.
3. Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can improve lung function and reduce the frequency of asthma symptoms. Dietary changes, such as avoiding foods that trigger asthma symptoms, can also be helpful.

Asthma Prevention

The goal of asthma prevention is to reduce the likelihood of developing asthma or exacerbations. The following are key elements of asthma prevention:

• Environmental modifications: Environmental modifications can reduce exposure to air pollution and allergens, which can trigger asthma symptoms. Strategies can include using an air purifier, reducing exposure to tobacco smoke, and avoiding outdoor activities during high pollen days.

• Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking can reduce the risk of developing asthma. Regular exercise can also improve lung function.

• Preventive medications: In some cases, preventive medications may be prescribed to reduce the risk of developing asthma or exacerbations. These medications can include inhaled corticosteroids or leukotriene modifiers, which can help control inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms from occurring.

Working closely with healthcare providers to develop an individualized treatment and prevention plan tailored to your specific needs is important. People with asthma can lead active and healthy lives with proper management and prevention.

Conclusion

Asthma can be a challenging condition to manage, especially during pregnancy. However, with proper treatment and prevention strategies, people with asthma can control symptoms and reduce the risk of exacerbations. Working closely with healthcare providers to develop an individualized plan can help ensure the best possible outcomes.

By staying informed about the risks associated with asthma medications during pregnancy, understanding the difference between chronic and pregnancy-induced asthma, and implementing effective treatment and prevention strategies, people with asthma can successfully manage their condition and lead active and healthy lives.

Consult an Asthma Specialist at Medanta Medicity Hospital and get expert guidance and assistance!