About Chronic Hypertension Treatment in Pregnancy

Chronic hypertension is a diagnosis of hypertension that occurs when a woman is in her child-bearing years. This condition is usually pre-existing before pregnancy. Only 5 percent of pregnancies are affected by chronic hypertension, but if a woman is diagnosed with the condition it is important that she take steps to protect her health as well as that of her child's.

Types

• There are three types of chronic hypertension. Two of these are essential hypertension and secondary hypertension. The causes for essential hypertension is largely unknown. What is known is that chronic hypertension is generally passed down from generation to generation, so genetics may play a role in who contracts the condition. Only a small percentage of women who have chronic hypertension suffer from secondary hypertension. Secondary hypertension is generally explained through another condition, such as the appearance of kidney disease, adrenal tumors, and the constricting of arteries to the kidneys. The third type of chronic hypertension occurs through pregnancy during the third trimester.

Complications/Risks

• Most pregnant women who are diagnosed with chronic hypertension experience very few problems. During the third trimester, women will experience fluctuations in their blood pressure. But there are some risks for women with chronic hypertension that can be caused by these fluctuations. Some women might experience a rise in blood pressure that can likely cause a stroke or other complications. Preeclampsia and placental abruption are also risk factors for women with chronic hypertension. Preeclampsia can cause damage to organ systems and can lead to seizures and an increase in bleeding. Placental abruption occurs when the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus too soon. This can lead to strong contractions, bleeding and early delivery. The most serious consequences, such as liver and kidney failure, can occur if the hypertension is left untreated.

Symptoms

• There are various symptoms associated with chronic hypertension that pregnant mothers should be aware of. Headaches or migraines and edema or swelling in the hands, face, and calves (edema in the ankles and feet are more common); vision problems; weight gain of 4 or more pounds in a week; pain or tenderness in the upper abdomen; and nausea or vomiting are common symptoms for hypertension. A decrease in the baby's movements during the third trimester is also a serious sign for hypertension. If a woman is experiencing any or all of these symptoms, she should consult her doctor immediately.

Treatment

• Generally, women with chronic hypertension are regularly monitored by their doctor to treat and control their high blood pressure. The doctor will watch out for signs of bleeding (a sign of placental abruption) as well as perform various medical tests and procedures that are normal for gynecological treatment on an increased basis. Regular blood tests are likewise taken to check blood counts, the liver and kidney. If a woman is taking medications to treat her hypertension, she should consult with her doctor before becoming pregnant. Certain medications can affect the fetus.

Prevention/Solution

• Any woman pre-diagnosed with chronic hypertension before becoming pregnant should take certain steps to ensure the healthy delivery of her child. Treatment for any and all complications of hypertension should be the first step for the health of the mother and child. Women who are overweight are at a high risk of experiencing preeclampsia, therefore they should lose weight before becoming pregnant. Blood pressure should be monitored by both the pregnant mother and her doctor at all times.