Bronchitis is one of the 10 most common inflammatory conditions. Therefore, cases of pregnant women with bronchitis are not rare; however, not all mothers are aware of the consequences that acute bronchitis during pregnancy can have on the baby.
1. Why are pregnant women more likely to get acute bronchitis during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, a woman’s immune system becomes weaker, which makes it harder for her body to fight off infections. This is why pregnant women are more vulnerable to diseases like bronchitis. When bronchitis develops in a pregnant woman, it often progresses faster and can have more serious effects
The most common causes of acute bronchitis during pregnancy are bacteria like Streptococcus or Pneumococcus, and viruses like the flu virus or Parainfluenza. Other causes can include Adenovirus, air pollution, exposure to cigarette smoke, and, in rare cases, certain bacteria (Hemophilus) or fungal spores. The challenge in treating bronchitis during pregnancy is that many common antiviral and antibiotic medications cannot be safely used.
Pregnant women who come into contact with people who have bronchitis are at risk of getting infected. The viruses or bacteria can spread through the air when someone coughs or sneezes, or through saliva and mucus. This makes it easier for bronchitis to develop and cause inflammation in the airways.
2. Signs of Acute Bronchitis in Pregnant Women
The initial signs of bronchitis are:
Dry cough;
Shortness of breath and sore throat;
Slight but stable increase in body temperature;
Feeling of weakness, drowsiness, apathy, and irritability;
Reduced appetite.
The early signs of bronchitis may not be very specific. After that, pregnant women may have more severe symptoms, such as:
Persistent coughing with chest pain;
Nasal mucus followed by mucus with pus;
Difficulty breathing;
High fever.
3. Is Acute Bronchitis During Pregnancy Dangerous?
Bronchitis in pregnant women is often caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy and changes in the mother's immune system. Depending on the severity of bronchitis, it can affect both the mother's and the baby's health.
Shortness of breath in the mother can reduce oxygen supply to the baby, which may lead to miscarriage. The risk of complications is relatively high, especially in chronic obstructive bronchitis, where the rate of complication reaches up to 10%.
Other risks include preterm birth, low birth weight (under 2.5 kg), birth defects, and complications like gestational diabetes.
The disease process is also influenced by anatomical changes during pregnancy. The diaphragm becomes nearly immobile due to the expanded uterus, making it difficult to expel mucus when coughing. This leads to mucus buildup, which can worsen the inflammation.
However, pregnant women with bronchitis should consult a specialist and strictly follow the doctor’s instructions. Do not self-medicate, as the dosage and type of medication must be carefully prescribed to ensure safety for both the mother and the baby.
4. Preventing Acute Bronchitis in Pregnant Women
Here are methods to prevent bronchitis during pregnancy:
Limit contact with sick individuals;
Maintain personal hygiene and keep your living and working environment clean;
Keep your body warm and avoid exposure to cold temperatures;
Adopt a healthy lifestyle and avoid harmful habits;
Do not smoke;
Wear a mask when going outside;
Avoid exposure to dust, toxic fumes, and polluted air;
Consult a doctor immediately if you show any symptoms to receive appropriate care.
5. Where to Get Checked for Acute Bronchitis During Pregnancy?
At Vinmec, the process of visiting the hospital is simple and efficient, with quick procedures that minimize wait times for patients. The hospital offers continuous consultation services throughout the week, from Monday to Saturday, provided by experienced doctors, including specialists (level II, level I), PhDs, and Masters. This ensures timely health consultations, diagnoses, and effective treatments.
Pregnant women at Vinmec will receive attentive guidance and support, with healthcare services provided through a strict international standard process while ensuring comfort and convenience. The hospital’s facilities are fully equipped, including consultation rooms, blood test rooms, dining areas, and patient waiting zones, creating a modern, respectful hospital environment.
The medical team at Vinmec is highly trained, with professional, caring staff offering excellent service. Vinmec Times City aims to provide the best possible medical experience, especially for pregnant women who need special care and protection during their health journey.
Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.
