Gestational hypertension, also known as PIH / pregnancy induced hypertension, involves a condition of high blood pressure during pregnancy. This condition if untreated, can lead to preeclampsia, which if not properly treated can result in the placenta not receiving a proper blood supply, which will reduce the amount of oxygen and food that is required for the infant. This can result in a baby being born with a low birth weight.
Eclampsia is a condition that may occur if preeclampsia is not properly treated. Eclampsia involves high blood pressure and rapid weight gain and results in seizures to the mother during pregnancy. If untreated, eclampsia can lead to separation of the placenta and result in premature birth.
Warning signs for preeclampsia and PIH:
- High blood pressure
- Water retention and weight gain
- Protein in the urine
- Headaches
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Vision problems
- Swelling of the hands and face
- Bruising that occurs too easily
One of the dangerous risks of gestational hypertension / PIH, preeclampsia, and eclampsia is premature birth. This puts the infant in jeopardy of being stillborn or ending up with serious permanent medical problems. The baby's brain, kidney's, and liver can all be damaged from the PIH restricting the blood flow during the fetus stage.
Preeclampsia and PIH treatment:
- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day
- Use little or no salt in meals
- Avoid fried foods and junk foods
- No caffeine and alcohol
- Exercise regularly
- Get plenty of rest
- Take doctor prescribed medication and supplements
- Elevate the feet a few times a day
- Schedule periodic checkups with the doctor to have the PIH checked and monitor the condition of the infant
If your baby was injured because a doctor failed to properly treat the hypertension during pregnancy, you should contact an experienced birth injury lawyer such as Dr. Bruce G. Fagel, who is both a leading medical malpractice attorney and a licensed medical doctor.
