A GP and family health expert has issued key advice to pregnant women this spring, as she debunked some of the many myths and half-truths surrounding allergies in mums-to-be.
Those expecting a baby can sometimes find they are more susceptible to common allergies such as pollen, gluten, and nuts, due to hormonal changes which alter the body’s response to allergens.
And with the weather warming up, expectant mums are now more likely to be hit by hay fever symptoms which can leave you feeling exhausted - the last thing you want when you're preparing to welcome a baby.
Thankfully, Dr. Shireen Emadossadaty has shared some important advice for those worried about allergies, including how to minimise the effects of hay fever, and which natural remedy to avoid.
Dr. Shireen teamed up with Fusion Allergy Nasal Spray (£9.99 at Boots) to tackle some of the myths surrounding allergies in pregnant women after the brand conducted a survey of 500 pregnant women which concluded that a whopping 57% of participants were worried about passing their allergies onto their children.
To ease concerns, Dr. Shireen said: "It's understandable that lots of mums-to-be have concerns around allergies and worry about passing on their own sensitivities to their child. We might think that by avoiding certain foods or environmental triggers like pollen will reduce the chances of this happening.
"However, there is some research to show that having exposure to common allergens like pollen, nuts and eggs during your pregnancy can actually be beneficial."
In the case of hay fever, 27% of women asked said their symptoms got worse while they were pregnant, and 28% said it made them not enjoy the experience of being pregnant.
Dr. Shireen explained: "Whilst hay fever can be problematic for pregnant women, it is important to know that hay fever is not dangerous to mum or baby, and just because you're pregnant, you don't have to suffer through it. There are safe and effective allergy relief products available to help women experiencing hay fever symptoms enjoy their pregnancy (and their summer!)."
However, there is one natural remedy that the GP would never recommend people use - honey.
Honey has been claimed to help reduce the symptoms of hay fever, but Dr. Shireen insists there is currently a "lack of evidence regarding the benefits" of the natural remedy, so she wouldn't recommend it over tried and tested methods.
For those looking for a natural way to keep their symptoms at bay, Dr. Shireen told The Mirror that there are steps you can take to minimise your exposure to pollen - including spending time outside in the afternoon instead of the morning.
She said: "Heading outside is great for our mental well-being, so don't feel you have to stay indoors to avoid symptoms. Pollen counts tend to spike during the morning, so try to spend time outdoors in the afternoon or early evening when pollen counts are usually at their lowest."
The GP also said getting a good night's sleep is vital, and said leaving any clothes you've worn during the day outside of the bedroom will help reduce the amount of pollen you bring into your room - leaving you free to get some rest without feeling stuffy.
She added: "Avoid bringing pollen into your house by taking your shoes off at the door. If you have a cat or dog that has been playing in a field or forest full of pollen, limit the amount of pollen they bring into the house by combing their fur before they come into the house – or get someone else to do it for you if you can!"
Dr. Shireen also told The Mirror that allergy avoidance is key when it comes to hay fever, just as it is with food allergies. While avoiding pollen might be tricky at times, it can be done by keeping windows shut on days with high pollen counts and taking precautions with your clothing.
"With hay fever, we advise keeping doors and windows shut on high pollen count days, using a barrier cream in the nostrils, showering and washing clothes when you come in from outside, and wearing wrap-around sunglasses," she explained.
If you do find yourself struggling with hay fever symptoms, drinking water might help, as could taking a hot shower.
Dr. Shireen shared: "There is some research that suggests that drinking water can be beneficial when struggling with allergies – the research suggests that your body produces more histamines when it's dehydrated so drinking water may potentially be good for allergies.
"Having a hot shower after being outside can wash away any potential allergens that may be on your skin and hair. The steam can also help open up nasal passages and help with any symptoms of congestion."
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