Pregnancy Problems? Understanding Your Preeclampsia Diagnosis And Options For A Perfect Pregnancy

Health & Medical Articles

Pregnancy is an exciting experience, but it can also be physically and emotionally draining. From an increased appetite and enormous change in your body to alarming mood swings and intense fatigue, the overwhelming nature of carrying a child is easy to see. Unfortunately, the miracle of life also poses many health concerns for you and your unborn child.

Considering 6 to 8 percent of women experience high blood pressure during their pregnancy, understanding and prevention is key. Known as preeclampsia, high blood pressure during your pregnancy can create serious health issues for you and your baby.  Using this guide, you will understand this condition and learn the best options to stay healthy while pregnant.

The 101 on Preeclampsia

Anyone can have high blood pressure, but preeclampsia is a high blood pressure level during pregnancy. In many cases, preeclampsia does not cause any serious issues. However, if the high blood pressure is left untreated, it can threaten you and your unborn child's life.

High blood pressure may begin around the 20-week mark of your pregnancy, so visit your obstetrician regularly for testing.

Symptoms of Preeclampsia

High blood pressure is the main symptom of preeclampsia, but you may develop other symptoms. Here are a few other noticeable symptoms of preeclampsia:

• Proteinuria – Excessive amounts of protein in your urine.
• Headaches
• Edema – Swelling that commonly develops in your hands, feet, or face.
• Vision Problems – Decreased or blurry vision is a common sign of preeclampsia.
• Abdominal Pain – You may have discomfort in the upper area of your abdomen.
• Nausea or Vomiting – Due to the abdominal pain, you may feel nauseous or begin vomiting.
• Breathing Difficulty – Many women with preeclampsia have shortness of breath.

Dangers of Preeclampsia

High blood pressure is unhealthy whether you are pregnant or not. Unfortunately, preeclampsia affects your unborn child, as well, so understanding the possible dangers is may save your baby's life.

If you have preeclampsia, your obstetrician will perform frequent ultrasounds to determine if there are noticeable placenta and amniotic issues. Just like a EVDI Medical Imaging center, these ultrasounds will allow them to view signs of potential problems. Here are some dangers of preeclampsia:

• Blood Flow to Placenta – Preeclampsia restricts blood flow through the arteries of the placenta. This restriction will not allow your baby to receive nutrients and oxygen, resulting in growth issues and a premature birth.
• Abruption of Placenta – Placental abruption occurs when the placenta disconnects from the uterus before delivery. Not only does this cause heavy bleeding, but the damaged placenta also risks your baby's development.
• HELLP – The HELLP syndrome refers to hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet counts, which can cause flu-like symptoms. The syndrome can be life threating to both you and your baby since it affects multiple organs. An estimated 48,000 women develop the HELLP syndrome each year in the United States.
• Eclampsia – Eclampsia results from untreated preeclampsia that leads to frequent seizures. Unfortunately, eclampsia most often prevents a full-term delivery.

Treating Preeclampsia

If you develop preeclampsia near the end of your pregnancy, your obstetrician will recommend inducing labor to delivery your baby early. This is the most effective way to treat your preeclampsia. However, if you develop the condition in the early stages of pregnancy, other treatments are necessary.

Medication is a common option for lowering blood pressure, but many prescriptions are not safe to use while pregnant. Your obstetrician will prescribe a solution that is effective and safe for you and your baby.

Many women give in to their cravings while pregnant, but following a healthy lifestyle is imperative for prevent and treating preeclampsia. Exercise is essential, but consult your doctor before starting a new exercise plan.

Sodium increases your blood pressure, so skip the salt and foods that are naturally high in sodium. Incorporate lean proteins and fish into your diet, as well. Fish is an excellent source of Omega 3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and blood pressure. If fish does not sound appetizing, consider adding an Omega 3 fatty acid supplements to your daily regimen.

Pregnancy is a beautiful experience, but you must take your physical changes seriously. With this guide, you will understand the importance of treating high blood pressure while pregnant. 

5 May 2015