Q&A: Permanently stuffy

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Since having my pregnancy confirmed a few weeks ago, I’ve been plagued by sinusitis.

It is so bad that I struggle to sleep as I’m so bunged up. I feel as though my immune system is under permanent strain. Is there anything I can take that can protect me? I’ve read a lot about vitamin C and zinc over the years, but now I’m hearing that vitamin D is also essential to supplement with, especially with COVID-19 doing the rounds. What advice do you have for me?

MARIA ASCENCAO ANSWERS Sinusitis or sinus infection is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, triggered by a cold or allergies. Healthy sinuses are usually filled with air. But when they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection. Symptoms include headache, facial pain, runny nose and nasal congestion.

Reoccurring sinus infections are common during pregnancy because the immune system runs at a lower speed than usual to help protect the growing baby, making you more vulnerable to infection and symptoms such as stuffy nose, cough or sore throat.

Pregnancy hormones also increase circulation to all blood vessels and membranes in the body, causing them to swell. Sinus infections are not harmful to the baby, but it’s important to always notify your doctor of your symptoms and boost immunity, especially now.

Here are a few natural ways to alleviate sinus, boost immunity and have a healthy pregnancy generally:

■ Follow a healthy balanced diet, including more fruit, vegetables, healthy fats, protein and water. Avoid sugary, spicy, oily or processed foods, raw fish, rare and cured meat, soft cheese and raw or soft egg yolk to protect against parasites or bacteria.

■ Supplement with a good quality multivitamin, iron and supplements that will help boost your immunity, such as vitamin C, D and zinc. Studies show that vitamin D may be as important as vitamin C for strengthening the immune system to fight flu, while a recent study has shown that vitamin D may help prevent the immune system from becoming dangerously overactive, and may protect COVID-19 patients against complications and death. ■ Exercise regularly. Studies show that active women are less likely to experience problems during pregnancy.

■ Get good quality restorative sleep and lots of rest.

■ Avoid alcohol, smoking or any drugs.

■ Use saline nose sprays or rinses, and gargle with warm saltwater to help moisten nasal passages and ease a scratchy throat.

■ Drink lots of liquids, including warm tea or water with honey and lemon.

■ Elevate your head with a few pillows while lying down to help make breathing easier. Use a humidifier and steam or nasal strips to help open nasal passages.

■ Use hot or cold packs on the shoulders, neck or forehead, give yourself a face massage or take a warm bath to help alleviate headaches.

■ Contact your doctor if you have a fever or if you struggle to eat or sleep.