Here's Why You're Sneezing A Lot During Pregnancy

Pregnancy rhinitis is congestion or a stuffy nose during pregnancy. It may feel similar to the nasal congestion you get when you have a cold, but this condition is mainly caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy.

Up to 30% of pregnant women have pregnancy rhinitis, and it can start as early as your second month, though it tends to get worse later in pregnancy.

How can I tell if my congestion is pregnancy rhinitis or something else?

If congestion or a runny nose are your only symptoms, then you probably have pregnancy rhinitis.

To relieve congestion and other symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis, try these healthcare expert-approved methods:

• Drink plenty of hydrating fluids
• Elevate your head with extra pillows when you lie down to rest or sleep
• Take a warm shower and linger in the steamy bathroom. Steam is soothing and temporarily relieves congestion
• Try saline nose drops or saline nasal spray
• Use a humidifier or vaporiser in your bedroom at night to add moisture to the air
• Get some mild to moderate exercise , which sometimes relieves a stuffy nose
• Avoid potential irritants, such as cigarette smoke, alcohol, paint and chemical fumes as well as anything else that triggers your symptoms