Congested Nose: In Pregnancy

A narrative review of peer-reviewed literature from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and clinical practice guidelines (2010–2025) was conducted.

Pregnancy-Related Rhinitis: Etiology, Clinical Impact, and Management of Nasal Congestion in Gestation Authors (Example) [Your Name], M.D.; [Co-author Name], Ph.D. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology / Otorhinolaryngology [Institution Name] Abstract Background: Nasal congestion is a common but often underappreciated symptom during pregnancy, affecting an estimated 20-40% of gravid individuals. Termed "pregnancy rhinitis," this condition is defined as nasal congestion lasting six or more weeks during gestation, in the absence of other identifiable allergic or infectious causes. congested nose in pregnancy

Hormonal changes—specifically elevated estrogen, progesterone, and placental growth hormone—drive increased nasal blood flow, glandular hypersecretion, and mucosal edema. While benign for most, severe congestion can impair sleep, cause snoring, and exacerbate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is linked to gestational hypertension and fetal growth restriction. First-line management includes non-pharmacological measures (humidifiers, nasal saline irrigation, sleep position elevation). Intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., budesonide, fluticasone) are considered safe and effective for moderate-to-severe symptoms. Decongestants, particularly oral pseudoephedrine, are relatively contraindicated in the first trimester due to a possible association with gastroschisis, and intranasal oxymetazoline should be limited to short-term use (≤3 days) due to rhinitis medicamentosa. A narrative review of peer-reviewed literature from PubMed,