Shortness of breath in pregnancy-what are its causes?

Symptoms of dyspnea in pregnancy

Each of us may experience shortness of breath in a different way. For this reason, doctors usually refer to it as a subjective symptom. Of course, although there may be a lowering of saturation when dyspnea is severe, this is most often a symptom that the doctor cannot investigate, and learns of its existence after talking to the patient. In most cases, pregnant women report shortness of breath when they feel difficulty taking a deep breath, pressure on the diaphragm or faster fatigue, and when catching breathlessness even when speaking.

Alarming symptoms of shortness of breath in pregnancy are concomitant chest pain or hemoptysis. This is because it can be a sign of pulmonary embolism, which has serious consequences and requires an immediate visit to the emergency room. The same is true if shortness of breath occurs after eating food or being bitten by an insect. It can be a symptom of allergies or even anaphylactic shock. Shortness of breath in the course of bronchial asthma also requires medical consultation.  

Causes of dyspnea in pregnancy

Up to 70% of pregnant women struggle with shortness of breath during the 9 months. Most often, this symptom is not related to physical activity. Shortness of breath during pregnancy can have various causes. Most of them are not related to any serious disease, and are caused only by physiological changes occurring in the body of the mother-to-be. The sensation of shortness of breath in pregnancy is most often caused by a naturally occurring elevation of the diaphragm, which gives the impression of making it difficult to take a deep breath in many moms-to-be. In addition, dyspnea in pregnancy may also be influenced by the effects of the hormone responsible for maintaining pregnancy-progesterone-on the respiratory center through, among other things. accelerated breathing.

The sensation of shortness of breath can also be influenced by emotions related to the upcoming delivery. Stress can lead to accelerated breathing and shallow breathing, which manifests itself as a sensation of shortness of breath.

What helps with shortness of breath during pregnancy?

Some of the causes of dyspnea in pregnancy are beyond our control. However, there are situations where viable measures can be implemented that have the desired effect. The mother-to-be can try to control her emotions, relax and practice calm breathing. Conscious control of breathing can effectively reduce the feeling of shortness of breath. Many moms also enjoy the benefits of meditation or yoga classes.

Pregnant women are also reaching out to physiotherapists for help. In addition to addressing the pelvic floor muscles, the physiotherapist can also show how to breathe properly and how to relax, among other things. abdominal muscles.

However, if the shortness of breath is caused by a medical condition, such as COVID-19 or bronchial asthma, for example, it is necessary to consult a doctor and sometimes implement pharmacological management.