Panic and shortness of breath in early pregnancy

Shortness of breath and chest tightness during pregnancy is a very common phenomenon. This symptom may occur in the early, middle or late pregnancy. Of course, when this symptom occurs, it must be adjusted through certain methods. Otherwise, if such bad feelings exist for a long time, it will affect the physical and mental health of the pregnant woman, and in turn affect the normal development of the child.

1. What causes chest tightness and shortness of breath in pregnant women?

Shortness of breath during pregnancy is common among pregnant women. As pregnancy progresses, many women experience shortness of breath. You may even feel shortness of breath during early pregnancy, but you may not think of it as shortness of breath yet, but instead you may be more aware of your need to breathe in oxygen.

During pregnancy, you need to breathe more oxygen, and your body adjusts accordingly to meet your oxygen needs. The increase in hormones during pregnancy, especially progesterone (also known as "progesterone"), can directly affect your lungs and stimulate the respiratory center in your brain. During pregnancy, the number of breaths you take per minute does not change much, but the amount of air you breathe in each time will increase significantly, causing shortness of breath.

Later in pregnancy, as the growing uterus puts pressure on the diaphragm, you may find it harder to breathe and feel more short of breath, especially if your baby is high in the fetus or you are carrying multiples.

In the weeks before labor, especially if this is your first baby, you may feel less shortness of breath. At this time, some pregnant women will have a sense of relief - a feeling that the fetus is descending, which is mostly because the fetus has entered the pelvis.

2. What to do if pregnant women have chest tightness and shortness of breath

If you experience shortness of breath during pregnancy, please don't panic. Shortness of breath during pregnancy is usually not a big deal and is normal. But in your daily life, you can slow down the pace and don't push yourself too hard when you are moving or exercising. Keep your torso straight, shoulders back, and lungs as wide as possible, especially when you're sitting. You can sleep on your side at night and use an extra pillow to elevate your head, which may make you feel better.

In addition, pregnant mothers should increase their nutrition appropriately during this period. Drinking milk powder for pregnant women can help them get enough protein and calcium, and drink a cup of Mead Johnson's maternal formula milk powder in the morning and evening. By joining the Mead Johnson Mom Club, you can learn pregnancy knowledge and take good care of yourself during pregnancy at any time. Once your baby is born, your breathing will quickly return to its pre-pregnancy state and you will no longer feel short of breath.

3. How to prevent shortness of breath in pregnant women

Eat a healthy, balanced diet that provides your baby with all the necessary nutrients, while avoiding excessive weight gain during pregnancy. Avoid eating too many foods that are high in fat, salt, and sugar, as these foods can add weight and make your breathlessness worse. Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and cutting back on caffeine and other beverages that cause you to urinate more frequently.

Eat plenty of iron-rich foods, such as lean meats, dark green vegetables, and dark fruits, and make sure you get enough vitamin C to help you absorb the iron in your food. Eating too many dark-shelled legumes, such as red cashews or pinto beans, may interfere with your body's ability to absorb iron from other foods, so eat them in moderation, especially if you're a vegetarian and use these foods as a source of protein.

If you think you may be anemic or find it difficult to eat the foods listed above, try a multivitamin or liquid iron supplement (consult your doctor before taking supplements) to increase your iron levels and other nutrients you need.

Be careful when exercising so that you don't tire yourself out to the point of being out of breath and feeling dizzy. Be sure to let your fitness trainer know you're pregnant, or better yet, only attend fitness classes that are specifically designed for expectant mothers. Ask for help when shopping, decorating your home, or doing housework so you don't overextend yourself on unnecessary tasks.