31 weeks pregnant with high blood pressure?

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in which the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is too high. This can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss.

What causes high blood pressure?

There are many different causes of high blood pressure, including:

* Family history: High blood pressure tends to run in families.

* Age: High blood pressure is more common in older adults.

* Race: African Americans are more likely to develop high blood pressure than people of other races.

* Weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of high blood pressure.

* Physical inactivity: Not getting enough exercise can increase the risk of high blood pressure.

* Smoking: Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the risk of high blood pressure.

* Alcohol use: Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure.

* Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease, can cause high blood pressure.

What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?

High blood pressure often has no symptoms. In some cases, people with high blood pressure may experience:

* Headaches

* Dizziness

* Blurred vision

* Nausea

* Vomiting

* Shortness of breath

* Chest pain

How is high blood pressure diagnosed?

High blood pressure is diagnosed with a blood pressure test. A blood pressure test measures the amount of pressure in the arteries. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. A blood pressure reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher is considered high blood pressure.

How is high blood pressure treated?

There are many different ways to treat high blood pressure, including:

* Lifestyle changes: Some lifestyle changes that can help lower blood pressure include losing weight, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake.

* Medications: There are many different medications that can be used to lower blood pressure. The type of medication that is best for a particular person will depend on their individual needs.

What are the risks of high blood pressure during pregnancy?

High blood pressure during pregnancy can increase the risk of serious complications, including:

* Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia is a condition that is characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Preeclampsia can lead to serious health problems for the mother and the baby.

* Eclampsia: Eclampsia is a condition that is characterized by seizures in a woman with preeclampsia. Eclampsia is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

* Placental abruption: Placental abruption is a condition in which the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus before the baby is born. Placental abruption can cause bleeding, pain, and preterm labor.

* Fetal growth restriction: Fetal growth restriction is a condition in which the baby does not grow as well as it should in the womb. Fetal growth restriction can lead to premature birth and low birth weight.

How is high blood pressure managed during pregnancy?

High blood pressure during pregnancy is managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. The goal of treatment is to keep blood pressure at a safe level for the mother and the baby.

Lifestyle changes that can help manage high blood pressure during pregnancy include:

* Eating a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt, saturated fat, and cholesterol can help lower blood pressure.

* Getting regular exercise: Getting regular exercise can help lower blood pressure. However, it is important to avoid strenuous exercise during pregnancy.

* Quitting smoking: Smoking can raise blood pressure. Quitting smoking can help lower blood pressure.

* Reducing alcohol intake: Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure. Reducing alcohol intake can help lower blood pressure.

Medications that can be used to manage high blood pressure during pregnancy include:

* Methyldopa: Methyldopa is a medication that is commonly used to lower blood pressure during pregnancy.

* Labetalol: Labetalol is a medication that is used to lower blood pressure during pregnancy.

* Nifedipine: Nifedipine is a medication that is used to lower blood pressure during pregnancy.

If you are pregnant and have high blood pressure, it is important to see your doctor regularly so that your condition can be monitored and treated.