Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH) is diagnosed when an expectant woman has a blood pressure reading of 140/90 or above, two or more times during pregnancy. Blood pressure can rise during pregnancy for a number of reasons such as diabetes, history of high blood pressure (hypertension) and twin or multiple gestation, though PIH most commonly occurs in first pregnancies. PIH is carefully monitored, as the condition can quickly manifest into other serious complications.
Preeclampsia
A more severe form of PIH, preeclampsia is a potentially deadly condition for both mother and fetus. The Mayo Clinic estimates that preeclampsia affects approximately 8 percent of pregnancies, and while the cause is not known, standard medical tests, such as blood pressure and urine screening, can screen for preeclampsia throughout pregnancy. Preeclampsia is diagnosed when blood pressure readings of 140/90 or higher are noted on two or more occasions after 20 weeks gestation. Additionally, protein will be detected in the urine and swelling of the hands, face and feet may be present. Women most at risk for developing preeclampsia include those who had preeclampsia with a previous pregnancy, those with a history of high blood pressure or kidney disease, women carrying multiple babies and women over 35. Preeclampsia can damage the mother's liver and kidneys and can result in seizures, while the fetus can suffer from inadequate blood and nutrient supply. While managed with bed rest and frequent medical monitoring, the only cure for preeclampsia is delivery of the baby.
Eclampsia
Seizures can result from uncontrolled high blood pressure during pregnancy, known as eclampsia. Women suffering from preeclampsia are at risk of developing seizures at anytime during pregnancy, though the condition is most common near the end of pregnancy and up to the first week postpartum (after delivery). Delivery of the baby is often warranted anytime preeclampsia worsens to the point that seizures are likely.
HELLP Syndrome
HELLP syndrome is a serious condition of physical changes that occur from severe preeclampsia or eclampsia. During HELLP syndrome, red blood cells and platelets breakdown, making it difficult to control bleeding as blood loses the ability to clot. Additionally, the liver begins to produce high levels of enzymes and loses the ability to function properly. The American Academy of Family Practitioners offers that HELLP syndrome can occur without underlying preeclampsia, and symptoms such as fatigue, pain in the right upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting and headaches can accompany the condition. Blood tests help diagnose HELLP syndrome, though delivery of the baby is the only cure.
References
- Mayo Clinic Complete Book of Pregnancy & Baby's First Year; Robert Johnson, M.D.;1994
- Children's Hopsital of Pittsburgh
- American Academy of Family Practitioners
