Pregnancy & High Blood Pressure Symptoms
High blood pressure during pregnancy can affect women by increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke, and can also affect the unborn fetus by increasing the risk of premature delivery, low birth weight and placental abruption. Special care should be taken to lower blood pressure throughout pregnancy to ensure a healthy delivery.
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The Facts
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According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, blood pressure is defined as the amount of force exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries and is considered high when readings are greater than 140 mm Hg systolic or 90 mm Hg diastolic. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is the main contributor of heart disease, heart failure, stroke and kidney disease. It is often labeled as "the silent killer" due to its mild or sometimes complete lack of symptoms. Symptoms are usually nonspecific but can include blurred vision, headaches, dizziness and nausea, according to eMedicine Health. High blood pressure during pregnancy occurs in 6 to 8 percent of all pregnancies in the U.S., 70 percent of which are first time pregnancies, according to NHLBI.
Effects
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High blood pressure during pregnancy can be harmful if not diagnosed and properly treated. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute states that women with pre-existing high blood pressure or those who develop high blood pressure with their pregnancy, also called gestational hypertension, are more likely to have complications throughout their pregnancies. It can cause harm to the mother's kidneys and other organs, is a contributor to early delivery and low birth weight and in extreme cases leads to preeclampsia. Preeclampsia affects the placenta and can affect the mother's kidneys, liver and brain, causing seizures. It is the second leading cause of maternal death and a major cause of fetal complications.
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Identification
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Pregnant women may notice signs of preeclampsia around the 20th week of pregnancy, according to NHLBI. The Mayo Clinic outlines the signs as blurred vision, persistent headache, sensitivity to light, significant weight gain (more than 5 lbs. per week), and abdominal pain that is usually on the right side. Swelling of the face and hands accompanies preeclampsia, but is not a reliable indicator since swelling is common in pregnancy. The NHLBI states that increased blood pressure and protein in the urine are also evident, making regular prenatal visits essential to test for these symptoms.
Prevention/Solution
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Ideally, blood pressure should be under control prior to becoming pregnant. If it is diagnosed during pregnancy, medication that is safe for the mother and the fetus may be prescribed to lower it. The National Heart Blood and Lung Institute suggests in addition to medication, lowering sodium intake, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight will also help lower blood pressure. If diagnosed with preeclampsia, bed rest or hospitalization may be recommended and induction or delivery via C-section may be advised. The only cure for preeclampsia is delivery, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Warning
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According to the Mayo Clinic, any medication taken during pregnancy may affect the fetus. Discussing the risks and benefits of medications with a health care provider is critical in determining the safest pregnancy health plan. While angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are considered safe to use during pregnancy, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and renin inhibitors are usually avoided during pregnancy. If high blood pressure medication is prescribed, follow the dosage directions carefully, do not adjust the dose and do not stop taking the medication without a doctor's consent.
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References
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