Gestational Hypertension
Gestational hypertension, also known as preeclampsia, is a condition that can develop during pregnancy that affects the cardiovascular health and blood pressure of expectant mothers. It is usually detected any time after the 20th week of pregnancy or after delivery. It is estimated that up to 8% of pregnancies in the United States are affected by this condition, making it one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. Though symptoms may include headaches, visual disturbances and increased swelling in hands or feet, gestational hypertension can often be asymptomatic until its later stages. If left untreated, this form of hypertension can lead to serious complications for both mother and baby such as low birth weight, premature birth or even death. For this reason, it is important for pregnant women to be aware of the risk factors associated with gestational hypertension, receive regular prenatal care from their healthcare provider and make healthy lifestyle choices throughout their pregnancy. Please keep reading for details on the following topics:
Warning signs of gestational hypertension
Complications of gestational hypertension
How high blood pressure is managed during pregnancy
PREECLAMPSIA OR TOXEMIA
Elevated blood pressure readings accompanied by the presence protein in the urine
Intense headaches; swelling to the body
WARNING SIGNS OF GESTATIONAL HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
It is important to know when to seek urgent medical care, as delaying appropriate treatment can lead to further health complications. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical help immediately. If you have any doubts about whether you should seek medical care, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult with your doctor.
Severe pain to the head
Lightheadedness
Trouble breathing
Pain to the chest of abdomen
Swelling to the feet, hands, face or abdomen
Feeling nauseous
COMPLICATIONS OF GESTATIONAL HYPERTENSION
It is important to know when to seek urgent medical care, as delaying appropriate treatment can lead to further health complications. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical help immediately. If you have any doubts about whether you should seek medical care, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult with your doctor.
Damage to the major parts of the body such as, kidneys, heart, brain, eyes
Preterm delivery
Low birth weight for baby
Seizures (eclampsia)
Coma
HOW BLOOD PRESSURE IS MANAGED DURING PREGNANCY
Close monitoring and treatment of the blood pressure to avoid complications
Checking the blood pressure at home and during clinic visits
The baby will be closely monitored to detect complications
Avoiding overexertion
Ensuring that medication is taken to control the blood pressure
Close and frequent monitoring of the baby to ensure growth is occurring as normal
Frequent blood and urine tests to monitor that the organs are functioning well
Early delivery can be done if the baby is not thriving
Hospitalization to monitor mother and baby or to help control the blood pressure
Relaxation and stress relieving exercises can be practiced