Clearly distinguish to avoid dangerous complications
According to Dr. Manisha Ranjan - obstetrician at Motherhood Hospital, Noida, gestational hypertension differs from chronic hypertension in that the disease starts in the second half of pregnancy and usually ends on its own after birth. Meanwhile, chronic hypertension has existed before pregnancy or appeared before the 20th week.
Risk factors include a history of high blood pressure in previous pregnancies, kidney disease, diabetes, multiple pregnancies, women under 20 years old or over 40 years old. Symptoms may include gradually increasing blood pressure, swelling in limbs, rapid weight gain, prolonged headache, epigastric pain, blurred vision, nausea or reduced urination.
Dr. Laura Magee - an obstetrician at the Women's Health Research Center, University of British Columbia, Canada - said that distinguishing between gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia and eclampsia is very important because each condition has different risks and treatment directions.
She emphasized that periodic blood pressure monitoring is a simple but effective measure to detect complications early.
Four ways to control blood pressure during pregnancy
To control the disease, experts recommend four main solutions.
First, regular prenatal check-ups to measure blood pressure and necessary tests, helping to detect abnormalities early.
Second, maintain a healthy lifestyle: eat more green vegetables, fruits, whole grains, limit salt, drink enough water and exercise appropriately according to doctor's advice.
Third, use blood pressure medication when prescribed to maintain stable index, reduce risk for mother and baby.
Fourth, closely monitor the development of the fetus with ultrasound and monitor the fetal heart rate. In case of high risk, doctors may consider premature birth before week 37 to prevent complications.
After giving birth, blood pressure is usually stable for six weeks, but women who have had gestational hypertension are at high risk of hypertension later. Therefore, continuing to monitor health and maintain a healthy lifestyle is a long-term necessity.
