Experiencing shortness of breath during pregnancy is a common thing. Some cases of shortness of breath in pregnant women (pregnant women) are not dangerous. Even so, shortness of breath during pregnancy can also be a sign of a more serious health problem.
Pregnant women may experience shortness of breath during pregnancy. In addition to the size of the uterus that continues to grow, there are several conditions that can worsen the shortness of breath that pregnant women feel. Recognize the various causes of shortness of breath during pregnancy, so that pregnant women anticipate and be aware of them.
Various Causes of Shortness of Breath during Pregnancy
Here are some of the causes of shortness of breath that occurs during pregnancy:
- The increasing size of the uterus causes pressure on the diaphragm which can interfere with breathing.
- Increases in the hormone progesterone during pregnancy, which stimulates the respiratory center in the brain. This makes pregnant women breathe faster and deeper.
- The position of the baby in the womb is still high, pregnant with twins, and the volume of amniotic fluid is too much.
In addition to pregnancy, there is also shortness of breath during pregnancy caused by serious health problems, namely:
- Asthma.
- Pneumonia (wet lungs).
- Pulmonary embolism. During pregnancy, the flow of blood clots in the body can change. This can increase the risk of pregnant women experiencing pulmonary embolism (blood clot that flows to the lungs). Shortness of breath caused by pulmonary embolism is a serious health problem.
- High blood pressure (hypertension).
- Anemia.
Pregnant women are advised to immediately consult a doctor if they experience shortness of breath, especially if accompanied by:
- Pain in the chest and pain when breathing.
- Fast pulse.
- Heart pounding.
- The face looked pale.
- The area around the lips and fingers looks blue.
- Persistent cough, coughing up blood and cough with fever.
- Difficulty breathing when lying down.
- Fear of not getting enough oxygen.
- Faint.
How to Overcome Shortness of Breath when Pregnant
So that shortness of breath during pregnancy does not get worse, pregnant women are advised to remain calm when doing activities, and do the tasks one by one.
In addition, pregnant women can also do the following things:
1. Light exercise
An unfit body can make pregnant women easily short of breath. Therefore, do light exercise regularly. Remember, do not do sports that can make pregnant women tired.
2. Raise your arms up when short of breath
When short of breath, raise your arms above your head. This movement will lift the ribs, so that more air enters.
3. Sit or stand in an upright position
When sitting or standing, make sure the pregnant woman's posture is upright. An upright posture will make the lungs expand properly.
4. Sleep with your head high
When sleeping or lying down, keep your head higher, for example by propping your head up to your upper back with several pillows.
Shortness of breath can be caused by changes in the body during pregnancy and certain medical conditions. Although shortness of breath during pregnancy is common, pregnant women should be aware of shortness of breath due to a serious condition and recognize the symptoms. If the tightness does not improve after pregnant women do some of the tips above, immediately consult a doctor.