Breathlessness in Pregnancy | Mombabykids.com
What causes breathlessness during pregnancy?
It's normal to feel out of breath. When you do something physically demanding and your body needs extra oxygen and energy, this is a normal reaction. When you sprint for a bus, for instance. Exhaustion during exercise is a healthy response and a necessary component of maintaining a strong, fit body. If you experience dyspnea when sitting or standing still, please let your doctor or midwife know.
It's typical to experience dyspnea throughout pregnancy, especially in the latter stages. It may be challenging for your lungs to properly develop due to the size of your womb and the location of your unborn child. You may also experience dyspnea due to the excess weight you are carrying, particularly during physical activity.
Causes of breathlessness during pregnancy
Asthma
Pregnancy can occasionally exacerbate asthma symptoms. If you have a history of asthma and you feel that your shortness of breath is growing worse, you should see your doctor very once. All of your existing medicines, including your inhalers, are safe to use while pregnant.
Anaemia
A low hemoglobin level, or anemia, can make breathing difficult. During pregnancy, blood tests are offered to check for anemia. At your next appointment, let your midwife know if you are having trouble breathing. Some women may require iron supplements to raise their hemoglobin levels.
Pulmonary Embolism (blood clot in your lung)
Pregnancy hormones raise the risk of pulmonary embolism (PE), which is uncommon (1 in 1000 pregnancies). Your midwife evaluates your individual risk of clotting during pregnancy and after delivery. By being active, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and drinking enough water, you can lower your risk. Please let us know if you have a family history of blood clots or any travel arrangements.
Nervousness and anxiety
Some women who experience anxiety or nervousness may occasionally feel as though their breathing is harder or faster. When you experience a surge of strong mental and physical symptoms, it can occasionally be as bad as a panic attack. It may begin abruptly and without apparent cause.
Breathlessness is frequently a symptom of a panic attack, which can be quite frightening and upsetting. Panic episodes are terrifying, but they are not harmful. An attack won't hurt you physically and will typically end in five to twenty minutes. Talk to your GP or midwife about this if you are receiving therapy for anxiety. If necessary, the majority of therapies can be continued during pregnancy. To learn more about maternal mental health, see this link.
