Non-pharmacologic Aspects of Management: “Asthma and Allergic and Immunologic Diseases During Pregnancy – A Guide to Management”

Abstract

Pregnancy represents a unique physiologic state that makes management of allergic disease challenging, particularly when considering use of pharmacologic therapies in the context of risk for possible teratogenicity and poor maternal-fetal outcomes. Non-pharmacologic approaches to management of atopic disorders in pregnancy need to be a key part of any allergic disease state management plan. Allergic rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis represent the three main allergic diseases that can be expected to be encountered during pregnancy. The avoidance of known irritants and allergens is a cornerstone of allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma therapeutic strategy, and non-pharmacologic interventions for atopic dermatitis are critical components of standard management. In some instances, adequate relief may be achieved solely with non-pharmacologic interventions, and in many cases, the need for pharmacologic therapy can be reduced by concurrent use of non-pharmacologic approaches. This chapter focuses on effective avoidance strategies and other non-pharmacologic approaches to the management of common allergic disease in the pregnant patient, allowing for better outcomes while at the same time limiting exposure to unnecessary medical therapy.