Week 22 - I hate allergy season!
June 4, 2006
So last week I mentioned that my allergies had been irritating me lately. This week, I’m ready to cut off my nose. I can’t sleep at night, and I’m keeping Zach awake as well. I sneeze throughout the morning, have a few hours of relief, usually mid-day, and then go right back to being horribly stuffy and miserable in the evening. Finally, Zach talked me into going to see my regular physician. I was going to try to tough it out until our next baby doctor appointment on June 5th, but I’m glad he convinced me to go earlier. The nurse practitioner I saw told me that the pollen count is up 85% this year, so I picked a good year to be unable to take regular allergy medication. On top of that, from what I’ve read, the pregnancy hormones usually cause women to produce more fluids in general. I think it was babycenter who told me to relax, that in 9 months I’d be back to normal. I’m certainly glad I don’t have to wait until September for relief, because I think I’d have a nervous breakdown before then! What I did find out was that in the last 2-3 years researchers have conducted tests on medications such as over-the-counter Claritin, and it is now accepted to be safe for pregnant women. So, I have been instructed to take Claritin, and I can supplement with Benedryl at night if needed, and Sudafed during the day, if needed. The Claritin has worked wonders (I’ve been using the generic brand) and having some peace from allergies has been such a relief. That being said, I want to make it clear that I consulted with my primary care physician before taking any medicine. No pregnant woman should take any medication without first speaking with a physician. I would highly encouage any pregnant woman suffering from allergies to see a doctor as soon as possible, since I can attest to how miserable it can make you.
