Controlling Blood Pressure In Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a blood pressure condition that occurs during early pregnancy or after childbirth. Do you think you have preeclampsia? Keep reading to learn more.

Quick Summary

• Preeclampsia occurs during pregnancy and ranges blood pressure between 120/80 mm Hg and 140/90 mm Hg in pregnant women.
• The condition requires serious medical attention, and doctors recommend medical treatment and lifestyle changes to ensure a smooth pregnancy.
• There are no known symptoms; however, those with chronic hypertension, diabetes, and obesity are at a higher risk for developing preeclampsia during pregnancy.

Blood pressure issues are very common amongst the adult population.

But, did you know that it is common for pregnant women to develop hypertensive disorders? A normal blood pressure reading is in the 120/80 mmHg range; however, fluctuations are very common.

Preeclampsia is a blood pressure condition that can occur during early pregnancy or postpartum usually occuring 20 weeks after gestation. According to the WHO, around 10% of women go through this condition when they are pregnant.

The condition causes the mother’s blood pressure to become life-threateningly high. Unfortunately, doctors are unable to diagnose the real cause of preeclampsia.

Some assume it may be due to improper blood vessel development in the placenta. Other reasons why a woman may develop preeclampsia are:

• Family history of hypertension
• Blood vessel damage
• Immune system disorders
• Obesity
• Diabetes

Symptoms of Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a challenging condition for pregnant women. It is diagnosed when two blood pressure readings, done four hours apart, are equal to or more than 140/90 mmHg.

This may occur suddenly, without warning.

Other symptoms to watch out for are:

• Difficulty in breathing
• Nausea (especially during the second half of the pregnancy)
• Shortness of breath
• Severe headache
• Swollen hands and feet
• Sudden weight gain
• High protein levels in urine (indicating kidney issues)
• Vomiting
• Vision changes like light sensitivity, blurriness, or a temporary loss of vision
• Pain in the shoulder or upper abdomen

If you suspect you have preeclampsia, it’s better to intervene early and follow a course of treatment for the duration of your pregnancy.

If not treated on time, preeclampsia symptoms can worsen to the following:

• Low platelets
• Abnormal liver and kidney function
• Upper abdomen pain
• Vision changes
• Fluid in the lungs
• Severe headaches
• A systolic blood pressure reading of 160 mmHg or higher or a diastolic reading of 110 mmHg or higher

Controlling Preeclampsia

Heart conditions are common. They depict age-related or heart health issues and how healthy an individual is. However, in the case of preeclampsia, things are a bit different.

Before treatment, your doctor will ascertain how far along you are in your pregnancy you are. If you are 37 weeks or beyond, the doctor may recommend delivering the baby and placenta to prevent the progression of preeclampsia.

However, if your fetus has not developed too much, your doctor may recommend medical treatment to protect the baby and regulate your condition. Common treatments prescribed are:

• Blood pressure controlling medication
• Medication like magnesium sulfate, which is used to control seizures
• Corticosteroids to reduce liver inflammation and aid the maturation of the baby’s lungs
• Lifestyle changes like blood pressure lowering supplements and diet changes

Pregnancy Complications During Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia can be fatal for both mother and fetus. In addition, women who experience preeclampsia during pregnancy are at high risk for kidney failure and cardiovascular issues in the future.

In addition, doctors have reported that some women diagnosed with preeclampsia can also experience “eclampsia,” i.e., seizures.

Some women may also be at risk for developing HELLP Syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets). This can result in blood clotting and pain, which can be life-threatening for the mother and the baby.

The Prognosis

Usually, women diagnosed with preeclampsia will return to their normal blood pressure levels once the baby has been delivered.

However, it takes around three months for the mother’s body to return to homeostasis, and during this time, your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and postpartum health.

In such cases, the doctors ensure the safest delivery for you and your child and provide sufficient aftercare. For future pregnancies, it is advisable to discuss the next steps with your doctor.

Preventing Preeclampsia

If you have experienced preeclampsia during your previous pregnancy, there are essential steps you can take to ensure your health remains optimal for your next birth. It is suggested that overweight women should lose weight, treat hypertension, and control diabetes if they have diabetes.

Your doctor may recommend treatment and lifestyle changes, along with medication that usually looks like a low dose of aspirin, between 60 to 81 milligrams, and regular prenatal care.

Taking Care of Your Blood Pressure At Home

It’s essential for women who have chronic hypertension or have been diagnosed with preeclampsia to prioritize rest during their pregnancy to lower blood pressure.

Mild preeclampsia blood pressure readings are between 120/80 mmHg and 140/90 mmHg, and immediate medical attention is recommended.

Some recommended steps for taking care of your blood pressure at home can include:

• Minimizing salt intake
• Drinking ample water and clear fluids during waking hours
• Increasing healthy protein in your diet
• Resting on the lift side to reduce pressure on major blood vessels

It is recommended you check in with your doctor when making any changes to your lifestyle during your pregnancy.

Conclusion

If you have a chronic history of diabetes, obesity, and hypertension, it’s best to consult your doctor on how to experience a safe pregnancy.

Preeclampsia can occur in the early weeks of expecting; hence it is best to watch out for symptoms like high blood pressure readings, headaches, and other symptoms mentioned above and seek immediate medical attention.

Ideally, your doctor may recommend testing your kidneys, heart, and liver and switching your usual medication to aid your pregnancy. Do not take any medication without consulting your doctor when pregnant. It is better to be safe than sorry.