Are you struggling with respiratory problems during pregnancy? COPD may be to blame! It is a chronic lung disease that can have a significant impact on your health and that of your baby.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Manju Gupta – Senior Consultant Obstetrician – Gynecologist at Maternity Hospital, Noida explained, “Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a type of lung disease. It is progressive. A person with COPD may experience constant difficulty breathing. This can be due to a number of factors, such as airflow obstruction, inflammation and significant damage to the lungs, cigarette smoking, and intense exposure to harmful substances. Lung diseases such as COPD can be caused by a variety of habits and factors.’
She revealed: “Over time, COPD can lead to serious complications such as respiratory failure, lung infections and cardiovascular disease. Pregnant women should be careful as they are more prone to lung diseases such as COPD during pregnancy. COPD can have a significant impact on their pregnancy as well as the fetus. This can include complications such as premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental delay in the baby. That’s why it’s so important for pregnant women to take proactive steps to reduce their risk of COPD.”
Tips for managing COPD during pregnancy
1. Avoid triggers: Several things can cause symptoms. This is why it becomes important to identify your triggers. Triggers can commonly include smoke, dander, dust and allergens present in the environment. Keeping your home and surroundings clean can make a big difference in the treatment of COPD during pregnancy. Consider installing an air purifier in your bedroom or hall for proper ventilation.
2. Prenatal care: Be sure to visit your doctor regularly during pregnancy. It can help you control your lung function as well as your overall health. Make sure you are aware of all types of symptoms that may occur for timely intervention.
3. Stay physically active: Physical activity during pregnancy can be beneficial. However, before starting training, you should consult a doctor. Your doctor can assess your health and the condition of the fetus and recommend accordingly. Light, low-impact activities like yoga, meditation, and long walks can help you stay active while improving lung function. This can be very helpful in improving overall lung capacity.
4. Breathing exercises: Practicing deep breathing exercises during pregnancy can have a number of health benefits. This can include techniques such as deep breathing exercises, yoga and meditation. This can not only improve the quality of life, but also improve lung function. These techniques can also help manage the stress and anxiety that can cause COPD.
5. Watch for symptoms: Monitoring symptoms is very important for managing COPD, especially during pregnancy. Regular observation of symptoms such as cough, wheezing, difficulty breathing, fatigue, chest tightness, and shortness of breath can help identify patterns and possible triggers. Understanding and recognizing these triggers in advance can help manage this condition effectively. Make sure you discuss these symptoms with your doctor during your appointment for proper diagnosis. Recognizing the early signs of COPD during pregnancy can lead to early detection and timely intervention.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any health concerns.
