As soon as the pregnancy test showed two pink lines, Sarah's world was turned upside down. The excitement and joy of expecting her first child were palpable, but little did she know that her body was in for a wild ride. At around six weeks into her pregnancy, Sarah began to experience a stuffy nose, constant congestion, and sneezing fits that seemed to come out of nowhere.
Pregnancy rhinitis is defined as nasal congestion lasting six weeks or longer, occurring during pregnancy, and resolving within two weeks postpartum. It is estimated to affect approximately 20% to 30% of pregnant women. Despite its prevalence, it is frequently dismissed by patients and clinicians as a trivial annoyance, though it can lead to complications such as obstructive sleep apnea and sinusitis. pregnancy rhinitis