Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is a medical term for the mother having high blood pressure during the pregnancy. It is critical for a doctor to pay close attention throughout the pregnancy if the mother has PIH. Failure to monitor PIH can result in dangerous conditions for the health of the baby.
Advanced stages of PIH or eclampsia, can result in seizures. If Pregnancy-induced hypertension becomes serious enough, the mother may have to deliver the baby early or prematurely. If this is the case, there is a chance of serious injury to the baby, including a stillbirth delivery. PIH can restrict blood flow to the fetus's important organs, including the uterus, placenta, brain, kidneys, and liver. Without the proper blood flow to these vital organs, the fetus may not get the amount of nourishing fluids it needs to develop, grow, and even survive in the womb.
Symptoms of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension:
- High blood pressure
- Protein in the urine
- Water retention
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Blurry vision
- Pain in the upper abdomen
A doctor may also recommend eliminating salt, drinking up to 8 glasses of water a day, exercising, avoiding junk foods such as fried foods, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and possible medication, depending on the severity of the condition and the proximity to delivery. The doctor should also request additional checkups to properly monitor the condition of the baby.
As long as the doctor recognizes PIH early enough, closely monitors, and treats the woman throughout the pregnancy, it should be completely manageable and not create any problems. Early detection and careful monitoring are the keys to delivering a healthy baby and avoiding any injuries to the mother as well. However, if the doctor fails to recognize or treat PIH, this may cause injuries to the baby or even death. If this happens, there may be grounds to file a medical malpractice lawsuit against the doctor.
