Risk Factors for Developing Hypertension in Pregnancy.

  • Maternal age- You are more likely to develop hypertension during pregnancy if you are younger than 20 or older than 35. 
  • Family history of preeclampsia- You are likely to develop high blood pressure in pregnancy if you have had a family history of gestational hypertension or preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a serious blood pressure condition that develops after week 20 of pregnancy
  • Pre-existing medical conditions- diabetes, kidney stones, or chronic hypertension. 
  • Multiple pregnancies
  • Obesity and overweight. 

Management

  • Regular Prenatal Care- To monitor and detect blood pressure levels and other symptoms such as chest pains, heart attack, and irregular heartbeat.
  • Healthy Lifestyle—Includes exercise and being physically active as well as  eating a balanced diet(that includes,  carbohydrates, proteins and vitamins-fruits).
  •  Avoid taking  alcohol and smoking of cigarettes.
  • Medication- You should take medicines as prescribed by your doctor especially antihypertensives
  • Early delivery- You should, in severe cases, be ready for early delivery which thr doctor may recommend to reduce risks to both the mother and baby.