Control of Asthma in Pregnant Women

American Family Physician,  Feb 15, 1999  

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The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) has launched a campaign to raise awareness among women with asthma and their physicians about the importance of controlling asthma during pregnancy. According to the ACAAI, asthma affects about 7 percent of pregnant women. The disease can cause complications for both mother and infant if not properly controlled during pregnancy.

To help control asthma symptoms and attacks, the ACAAI recommends that physicians work with their patients to develop a treatment plan that includes environmental control to limit exposure to asthma and allergy triggers and, if appropriate, the use of medication. Physicians should counsel their patients about the use of asthma and allergy medications during pregnancy. Women also need to know how their asthma symptoms might change when they become pregnant.

As part of the campaign, the ACAAI has created a consumer brochure titled "Advice from Your Allergist: Managing Asthma and Allergies During Pregnancy." Copies of the brochure can be obtained by calling 800-842- 7777. Information is also available on the ACAAI Web site at http://www.allergy.mcg.edu.

COPYRIGHT 1999 American Academy of Family Physicians
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning