Managing Excessive Phlegm and Breathing Difficulties During Pregnancy

Excessive phlegm and difficulty breathing?

Hello, doctor.
I am a pregnant woman, currently 19 weeks along.
A few days ago, I suddenly developed a fever in the afternoon, reaching over 40 degrees Celsius, accompanied by body aches and chills.
I did not have any other cold symptoms prior to this fever; it just started with the fever.
I took the antipyretic medication prescribed by my obstetrician, but it was ineffective.
The next morning, I visited my obstetrician again and was given antibiotics, which gradually helped reduce the fever.

I then immediately felt pain on the right side of my throat and started experiencing severe coughing with phlegm production.
Initially, the phlegm was yellow and occasionally had blood in it.
After coughing throughout the night, the phlegm turned white and was very thick.
The phlegm feels like it is in my chest, and my breathing produces loud sounds, which triggers more coughing, leading to more phlegm expulsion.
The issue is that I have to expel phlegm every five to ten minutes, and I produce a significant amount each time.
Additionally, whenever I manage to sleep a little at night and wake up, the phlegm is yellow again, but after expelling it, it returns to being white.
I would like to ask how much longer I will need to cough before I recover.
If I see a pulmonologist and cannot have an X-ray, how will they make a diagnosis? Thank you, doctor.

Kailuo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/19

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if the fever persists, it is still possible that it is influenza.
If symptoms do not improve, you may consult a pulmonologist for evaluation.
Even without an X-ray, lung conditions can still be assessed through auscultation or other physical examinations.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/02/19

More Info

Managing excessive phlegm and breathing difficulties during pregnancy can be a challenging experience, especially when combined with other symptoms like fever and throat pain. Given your situation, it’s essential to approach this with caution and prioritize both your health and that of your developing baby.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that during pregnancy, the body undergoes various changes that can affect the respiratory system. Hormonal changes can lead to increased mucus production, and the growing uterus can put pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing feel more labored. When you experience symptoms like a high fever, severe cough, and excessive phlegm, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as these could indicate an underlying infection or respiratory issue.

From your description, it sounds like you may have developed a respiratory infection, possibly bronchitis or pneumonia, especially given the presence of colored phlegm and the fever. The fact that you experienced a high fever (over 40 degrees Celsius) and body aches suggests that your body is fighting an infection. While antibiotics can be effective in treating bacterial infections, it’s essential to ensure that any medication taken during pregnancy is safe for both you and your baby.
In terms of managing your symptoms, here are some recommendations:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin the mucus, making it easier to expel. Warm fluids, such as herbal teas or broths, can be soothing for your throat and help with mucus clearance.

2. Humidify the Air: Using a humidifier in your room can help keep the air moist, which may ease coughing and help loosen phlegm.

3. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the infection. Ensure you get plenty of rest to support your immune system.

4. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong odors, and other irritants that can exacerbate coughing and phlegm production.

5. Medications: Since you are pregnant, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter medications. Some expectorants and cough suppressants may be safe, but always check with your doctor first.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If you notice any worsening, such as increased difficulty breathing, high fever persisting despite medication, or if the phlegm becomes more discolored or contains more blood, seek medical attention immediately.

Regarding your concern about seeing a pulmonologist (chest specialist) without an X-ray, many conditions can be diagnosed through a thorough clinical examination, including listening to your lungs with a stethoscope, assessing your symptoms, and possibly conducting other tests like a sputum culture or blood tests. If necessary, your doctor may recommend imaging studies that are safe during pregnancy, such as an ultrasound or MRI, depending on the situation.

Lastly, it’s essential to maintain open communication with your obstetrician throughout this process. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific health needs and ensure that both you and your baby remain safe during your recovery.

In conclusion, while managing excessive phlegm and breathing difficulties during pregnancy can be daunting, following these steps and working closely with your healthcare providers can help you navigate this challenging time. Always prioritize your health and don’t hesitate to seek medical help when needed.

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