GESTATIONAL HYPERTENSION

Description

• It is also known as pre-eclamsia toxemia, or toxemia of pregnancy
• It is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure, swelling due to fluid retention, and protein in the urine.
• Types
• 1. Chronic hypertension
• 2. Gestational hypertension
• 3. Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH)

Symptoms

• Severe headaches
• Vomiting blood
• Excessive swelling of the feet and hands
• Smaller amounts of urine or no urine
• Blood in your urine
• Rapid heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Excessive nausea
• Ringing or buzzing sound in ears
• Excessive vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Fever
• Double vision
• Blurred vision
• Sudden blindness
• Pain in the abdomen

Causes and Risk Factors

• A woman is more likely to develop PIH if she:
• Is under age 20 or over age 35
• Has a history of chronic hypertension
• Has a previous history of PIH
• Has a female relative with a history of PIH
• Is underweight or overweight
• Has diabetes before becoming pregnant
• Has an immune system disorder, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Has kidney disease
• Has a history of alcohol, drug, or tobacco use
• Is expecting twins or triplets
• Diagnostic Tests
• Prenatal test
• Blood test
• Ultrasound
• Sonography

Treatment

• High blood pressure is treated with medication
• Magnesium is given through an IV to prevent seizures
• Follow the diet and fluid intake guidelines
• Maintain a quiet, restful environment