Pregnancy Induced Hypertension: How to avoid and treat PIH

PIH or pregnancy induced hypertension is a condition of high blood pressure during pregnancy. One of the most common PIH is the chronic hypertension, wherein high blood pressure is detected before pregnancy. When the blood pressure extremely goes up, protein can be found in the urine and this is called toxemia or preeclampsia.




Most pregnant women who are really affected by this condition are those who are first-time mothers, women who are carrying multiple babies, young mothers and pregnant mothers who are more than 40 years of age. Pregnancy induced hypertension can be considered as a genetically found health disorder; that is why, if there is someone in your family that have the same condition, there is the possibility of acquiring the condition as well.



Pregnancy induced hypertension can be one of the primary concern in having a baby because it can be the start of other serious problems if left untreated. High blood pressure may block the passage of blood flow that can damage some vital organs of the body. Moreover, this condition may develop abruptio placenta and some fetal growth disorders.



Symptoms of pregnancy induced hypertension can be different from other pregnant mothers because most of the time their symptoms may vary from how high their blood pressure is. The most common symptoms are having an elevated blood pressure, protein present in the urine, edema, and sudden weight gain. Pregnant mothers may experience some changes in their vision as well as vomiting, abdominal pain, urinating in smaller amounts and sudden changes in kidney function.



Pregnancy induced hypertension can be treated just by having a regular consultation to your doctor and by taking some prescribed medications, along with magnesium sulfate to lower down the blood pressure. To prevent your self from having PIH, treatment with added care and discipline is a must. For a healthy pregnancy, you should observe a complete bed rest or hospital confinement. Regular fetal monitoring is also suggested to monitor the development of your child during the pregnancy