Is High Blood Pressure a Sign of Early Pregnancy? This is a question which is often asked by women who are trying to conceive or those who are just concerned that they could be pregnant. Well, high blood pressure could be a sign of early pregnancy. There are a few cases where women have experienced a rise in their blood pressure then went ahead to test positive for pregnancy.
Early Pregnancy and Hypertension
An increase in blood pressure is however not an obvious sign of early pregnancy. This is because the increase in pressure might have been triggered by other things such as stress, illnesses and other physiological conditions. It is important to see your doctor as soon as you experience symptoms of high blood pressure as it may mean a more serious medical condition.
High blood pressure (Bp) or hypertension is common during pregnancy. In fact, one of the tests that is usually performed whenever expectant women visit antenatal clinics is Bp. According to Mayo Clinic, there are various kinds of high blood pressure which may occur during pregnancy. There is gestational hypertension that happens after 20 weeks of pregnancy and chronic hypertension which usually occurs before 20 weeks of pregnancy but can also be present before conception. In addition to these, there is also a possibility of preeclampsia.
What is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a condition which is characterised by a spike in blood pressure and signs of damage to body organs. It may occur as a result of chronic or gestational hypertension. Doctors usually diagnose preeclampsia through presence of proteins in urine in addition to an elevated blood pressure. Preeclampsia is a serious medical condition which ought to be attended to effectively. If left unattended, it could lead to fatal complications for both mother and baby. Other symptoms of preeclampsia include severe headache, blurred vision, shortness of breath, and upper abdominal pain among others.
Why you Should Get your Blood Pressure Checked During Pregnancy?
It is important to get your blood pressure checked throughout your pregnancy. This is because a high blood pressure during pregnancy can pose serious health risks. It can lead to preterm delivery, low birthweight, placental abruption, and occurrence of cardiovascular diseases in the future.
How to know if You Have a High Blood Pressure?
The best way to know if you have hypertension or not is to go for a blood pressure test. A test that reads 140/90 mm Hg or more is usually an indication that your blood pressure is higher than normal. Normal blood pressure is usually around 120/80 mm Hg.
What to Do if You Have a High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?
When your doctor finds you with an elevated blood pressure, he or she may prescribe for you anti hypertension drugs as need be. Not all anti hypertension drugs are recommendable for use during pregnancy as some of them could pose harm to the developing fetus. Drugs like methyldopa and labetalol are however safe for use by pregnant women. In addition to medicinal treatment, you need to change your diet and lifestyle to help you lower your blood pressure. You should avoid smoking and alcohol and also avoid taking much sugar. You also should try to stay physically fit as being overweight is a risk factor for hypertension.
Hypertension during pregnancy is however a condition that can be brought under control. You need not worry much if you are pregnant and having hypertension. You only need to see a doctor and then follow his or her advice.
Go for a Pregnancy Test
If you’re having an increase in blood pressure and wondering if it could be a sign of early pregnancy, it is important to go for a pregnancy test. The only sure way to know if you are pregnant or not is to go for a test.
