Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH)

Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension

What is pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH)?

The term pregnancy-induced hypertension refers to high blood pressure during pregnancy. Blood pressure over 80Hg and 120Hg is called high blood pressure. During pregnancy-induced hypertension, proteins are discharged in urine. Pregnancy induced hypertension is also called toxemia or preeclampsia.
It occurs 5% to 10% of pregnancies and common in common in young women in their first time pregnancies.
It is also observed that pregnancy-induced hypertension is common in twin pregnancies, that is, when twins are expected.

What are the symptoms of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH)?

High blood pressure
Protein in urine
Water retention
Headaches
Fatigue
Vomiting
Shortness of breath
Pain in the upper right abdomen
Although these symptoms are common in pregnancy-induced hypertension, it may be caused due to other diseases or disorders. Therefore, visit your doctor for further information and check-up.

What are the risk factors of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH)?

A first time pregnancy
Pregnancy in young age or above 40
Women having history of pregnancy-induced hypertension in their parents are more prone to develop it
Women having twins or multiple babies

How do I know if I have pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH)?

If you have any symptom, visit your doctor for checkup. Normally, urine and blood is tested to diagnose pregnancy-induced hypertension.
Your doctor may check your kidneys and blood clotting.

How pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is treated?

It depends on your due date of having babies. If you are close to due date, your doctor may wait for ending your pregnancy.
In case your due date is far and baby has not developed enough, it may be treated during pregnancy.
Women having pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) are recommended to:
Drink at least 12 glass of water
Decrease salt and spice in your dietary substances
Have increased prenatal checkup.
In case of severe pregnancy-induced hypertension, you may be prescribed hypertension medications.

Useful advices:
Avoid spicy foods, rich in fats, coffee and wine. Drink at least 12 glass of water a day. Be happy and cheerful.

Conclusion:
High blood pressure during pregnancy is termed as pregnancy-induced hypertension. To be aware of if you have pregnancy induced hypertension, you must visit your doctor frequently during pregnancy.