What is Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension?

Pregnancy-induced hypertension, often called high blood pressure during pregnancy is a condition that affects about 7% to 10% of pregnancies. It is different from chronic hypertension, which is high blood pressure a woman already had before she became pregnant.

What are the different types of pregnancy-related high blood pressure?

There are several terms you might hear regarding this condition:

• Preeclampsia (Toxemia): This is high blood pressure combined with other signs, like protein in the urine. It is most common in women having their first baby, those carrying twins or triplets, or those who had PIH in a previous pregnancy.
• Eclampsia: This is a severe and dangerous form of preeclampsia that causes seizures. It is rare, occurring in about 1 in 1,600 pregnancies, usually near the end of the term.
• HELLP Syndrome: This is a serious complication involving the breakdown of red blood cells, changes in the liver and low platelets (the blood cells that help your blood clot).

What causes high blood pressure during pregnancy?

Doctors do not yet know the exact cause of PIH. However, certain factors can increase your risk, including:

• Already having high blood pressure or kidney disease.
• Having diabetes.
• Having PIH during a previous pregnancy.
• Being a mother younger than 20 or older than 40.
• Carrying more than one baby (twins or more).

Why is high blood pressure a problem during pregnancy?

High blood pressure makes blood vessels stiff. This can make it hard for blood to reach important organs like the liver, kidneys, brain, and the uterus. Most importantly, it can reduce blood flow to the placenta, which gives food and oxygen to the baby.

Potential complications include:

• Placental Abruption: When the placenta peels away from the wall of the uterus too early.
• Fetal Growth Problems: The baby may not grow well (slow growth in the womb).
• Early Delivery: The doctor may need to deliver the baby before 37 weeks to save the mother or child.

What are the signs and symptoms of PIH?

While every woman may experience symptoms differently, the most common signs include:

• An increase in blood pressure.
• Protein found in the urine.
• Swelling (edema), especially in the hands and face.
• Sudden weight gain.
• Changes in vision, such as blurriness or seeing double.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Pain in the upper right side of the stomach area.
• Urinating less often than usual.

How is high blood pressure during pregnancy diagnosed?

A doctor will usually diagnose PIH by measuring your blood pressure. If the reading is 140/90 mm Hg or higher or if there is a significant jump from your normal levels, further tests may be done, such as:

• Urine tests to check for protein.
• Frequent weight checks to monitor swelling.
• Eye exams to check the retina.
• Blood tests to check liver and kidney function and blood clotting.

How is high blood pressure during pregnancy treated?

Your doctor will decide on a treatment plan based on your overall health, the severity of the condition, and how far along your pregnancy is. The goal is to prevent the condition from getting worse. Treatment may include:

• Bed Rest: Either at home or in the hospital.
• Hospitalization: To have access to specialized equipment and staff.
• Medication: Such as magnesium sulphate or other medicines to lower blood pressure.

During this time, the doctor will also check the baby’s health using:

• Fetal Movement Counts: Tracking how often the baby kicks.
• Nonstress Tests: Monitoring the baby's heart rate.
• Biophysical Profile: Combining a heart rate test with an ultrasound.
• Doppler Flow Tests: Using sound waves to see how well blood is moving through the vessels.
• Corticosteroids: Medicine to help the baby's lungs mature quickly in case of early delivery.

If the condition cannot be controlled or the mother and baby are in danger, the doctor will deliver the baby, sometimes through a cesarean section (C-section).

Can high blood pressure during pregnancy be prevented?

The best way to prevent complications is to identify the risks early. It is very important for pregnant women to learn the warning signs and attend all prenatal checkups so the doctor can catch any changes in blood pressure as soon as they happen.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced care for Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension in Lucknow, India. We have a team of experienced obstetricians, physicians, and maternal-fetal care specialists. We provide accurate diagnosis through regular blood pressure monitoring and essential investigations, along with personalized treatment and close follow-up. Our care focuses on controlling blood pressure, preventing complications like preeclampsia, safeguarding the baby’s growth, and planning a safe delivery. Our team works together to ensure timely, careful, and compassionate care for healthy outcomes for both mother and baby.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

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