Gestational hypertension, also known as pregnancy induced hypertension occurs in women during pregnancy. If a pregnant woman has high blood pressure i.e., more than 140/90 and this occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy, then she is said to have gestational hypertension. This can lead to preeclampsia or toxaemeia, which is a serious medical condition during pregnancy.
Symptoms of gestational hypertension
Some of the symptoms you may notice if you are suffering from gestational hypertension:
- Rise in blood pressure level
- Presence of protein in the urine
- Vomiting and nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nose bleeding
- Swelling of the body
- Double or blurred vision
- Pain around the stomach
- Urinating in small quantity
- Sudden gain in weight
Diagnosis of gestational hypertension
Based on the above symptoms, the following tests are done to diagnose if you are suffering from gestational hypertension:
Measuring the level of blood pressure
- Testing for body swelling or edema
- Checking your body weight regularly
- Urine, kidney and liver function test
- Testing for blood clotting
How to prevent gestational hypertension?
Though there are no foolproof methods to prevent gestational hypertension, adopting the following will definitely be helpful for a healthy pregnancy.
- Have at least seven to eight glasses of water daily
- Lower the consumption of salt and use only required for taste
- Do exercise regularly
- Take rest as much as possible
- Include foods with high protein
- Avoid junk food
- Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol
Treatment for gestational hypertension
If you are suffering from gestational hypertension, your doctor may recommend the following to lower the level of gestational hypertension so that it doesn’t worsen.
- Medications for lowering the level of gestational hypertension
- Frequent testing of your blood and urine
- You may be recommended bed rest
- If needed, you may be hospitalised as you may need special attention
- Monitoring the health of the foetus
So, it is very essential to have check-ups regularly during pregnancy to know that everything is okay with you and your baby. If your doctor finds that you are suffering from gestational hypertension, you will be recommended to do the necessary things.
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