Sunday, August 9, 2009

Asthma and Pregnancy

Women with asthma sometimes need a little extra attention during pregnancy because an asthma attack can reduce the amount of oxygen the fetus receives (causing a condition called fetal hypoxia). But with close medical supervision and quick response to attacks, asthmatics can certainly expect to have a safe pregnancy and a normal delivery.

Asthma sufferers may notice a change in their asthma during pregnancy. Some have fewer attacks; others have more. Many notice an increase in attacks in the last trimester when the enlarged uterus crowds into the lung area and sometimes makes breathing difficult even in the best of circumstances.

Before you experience an asthma attack, talk to your doctor about your medication. Some are safer than others during pregnancy. Once you have a pill or inhaler approved by your doctor, don't hesitate to use it when you need it. Any possible negative effect on the fetus from the medication is less than the effect of oxygen deprivation. If it ever happens that your medication can't stop an asthma attack, get yourself to an emergency roomthis is an emergency. Also, let your doctor know if you feel symptoms of a cold or the flu. Immediate treatment (maybe with antibiotics) can head off an asthma attack.



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