Pregnancy hypertension | Pregnancy complications – What are the signs?

Pregnancy hypertension

If during pregnancy, during preventive medical check-ups at the gynaecologist, the pregnant woman is diagnosed with elevated blood pressure values (over 140/90mmHg), this can have various causes. A harmless reason would be an existing nervousness or excitement during a visit to the doctor. In this case, the expectant mother should measure and record her blood pressure at home in familiar surroundings, or a long-term blood pressure study over 24 hours should be performed.

However, if there is an elevated blood pressure, especially after the 20th week of pregnancy, pregnancy hypertension is diagnosed. This can be a risk for mother and child. The causes of gestational hypertension are still partly unknown.

However, risk factors such as hypertension or diabetes mellitus, which already existed prior to pregnancy, can promote the development of gestational hypertension.Symptoms and complications of gestational hypertension include : Headaches, dizziness, visual disturbances reduced blood flow in the placenta with the following nutrient deficiency of the child Pre-eclampsia (pregnancy poisoning, precursor of eclampsia): high blood pressure, proteins in the urine and possibly water retention (edema) Eclampsia: Symptoms of pre-eclampsia and additional seizures HELLP syndrome: complication of eclampsia, which can lead to the breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysis), elevated liver enzymes and a decrease in platelets (low platelet count). Treatment of gestational hypertension includes close monitoring of blood pressure, urine and blood values, a balanced diet and sufficient exercise. Treatment with antihypertensive drugs may be necessary.

Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia can be very dangerous for both mother and child, so that the birth should be attempted as soon as possible. If the HELLP syndrome occurs, delivery must take place immediately.

  • Headaches, dizziness, vision problems
  • Reduced blood flow in the placenta with the following nutrient deficiency of the child
  • Preeclampsia (pregnancy poisoning, precursor of eclampsia): high blood pressure, proteins in the urine and possibly water retention (edema)
  • Eclampsia: symptoms of pre-eclampsia and additional seizures
  • HELLP syndrome: Complication of eclampsia, which can lead to the breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysis), elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count.