Maternal Asthma


Asthma is a respiratory disorder that occurs when the trachea and the bronchi are extra sensitive to stimulations, and hence breathing becomes affected. Problems associated with asthma include difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. It comes and goes, occurs at any age but nearly half of the cases happen before the age 10. Pregnancy does not worsen the situation; either the mother gets better or her condition stays the same. When the attack is severe, it can cause high BP in the mother and premature birth or smaller babies. Medications to treat asthma are safe for use during pregnancy. Most cases go through a safe pregnancy and delivery despite having this condition. Since oxygen consumption increases by 25%, treatment is important during pregnancy so that baby can receive adequate oxygen it needs. Treatment in the form of medication prior to becoming pregnant can be continued. Bring this up in your early prenatal visits with your doctor so that you are on the right path.