What is Gravido Cardiac?
Gravido cardiac refers to the cardiovascular changes that occur during pregnancy. These changes are necessary to support the increased demands of the growing fetus, but they can also lead to complications such as preeclampsia and gestational hypertension.
Some of the cardiovascular changes that occur during pregnancy include:
* Increased blood volume: The amount of blood in a woman's body increases by about 50% during pregnancy. This is necessary to provide enough oxygen and nutrients to the fetus.
* Increased heart rate: The heart rate increases by about 10-15 beats per minute during pregnancy. This is also necessary to meet the increased demands of the fetus.
* Lowered blood pressure: Blood pressure typically decreases during pregnancy, particularly in the first and second trimesters. This is due to the increased blood volume and the decreased resistance of the blood vessels.
* Structural changes in the heart: The heart increases in size and weight during pregnancy. The left ventricle, which is the main pumping chamber of the heart, hypertrophies (enlarges). The right ventricle also enlarges, but to a lesser extent.
* Valve changes: The aortic and mitral valves may become incompetent (leaky) during pregnancy. This is caused by the increased blood flow and the hormonal changes of pregnancy.
Complications of gravido cardiac
The cardiovascular changes of pregnancy can sometimes lead to complications, such as:
* Preeclampsia: A condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for the mother and baby, including preterm birth, eclampsia, and stroke.
* Gestational hypertension: A condition characterized by high blood pressure that occurs only during pregnancy. Gestational hypertension usually goes away after delivery, but it can increase the risk of preeclampsia and other complications.
* Heart failure: In rare cases, the cardiovascular changes of pregnancy can lead to heart failure. This is more likely to occur in women with pre-existing heart conditions.
Preventing complications
The risk of complications from gravido cardiac can be reduced by:
* Getting regular prenatal care: Prenatal care can help identify and manage any risks for complications.
* Eating a healthy diet: A healthy diet can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
* Getting regular exercise: Exercise can help strengthen the heart and improve circulation.
* Avoiding smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can increase the risk of heart disease and other complications.
* Managing pre-existing heart conditions: Women with pre-existing heart conditions should work closely with their doctors to manage their conditions during pregnancy.
By taking these steps, women can help reduce their risk of complications from gravido cardiac and ensure a healthy pregnancy.